Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
Tucked away in Portland’s less-visited southeast corner, the glorious Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden provides a natural tonic to the non-stop hubbub of city life. In contrast to the gray acres of the concrete jungle that encircle it, this horticultural marvel shimmers with vibrant natural radiance. Indeed, the garden’s color palette evolves with the seasons to create an ever-shifting panorama of changing delights. The floral luminescence of spring and summer mellowing first into autumnal splendor before softly slipping into the restrained tones of winter. As a result, no two visits to this tranquil retreat are alike; there’s always something new to discover.
An Oasis of Plantlife
All in all, the garden is jam-packed with more than 2,500 species of plants. Rhododendrons, quite naturally, take pride of place. Indeed, it’s hard to miss them. You see, rare species and hybrids have colonized much of the garden’s 9.5-acre span. Moreover, each year, between February and July, this superabundance of rhododendrons produces a truly jaw-dropping display that transforms the surroundings into nothing short of a floral wonderland.
But there’s more to this garden than rhododendrons alone. Azaleas are similarly abundant and together with a whole host of companion plants play no small part in making the summer-spectacle as dazzling as it is. As if that wasn’t enough, the entire extravaganza is tastefully framed by the skyward reach of numerous tree species.
A Refuge for Wildlife
In addition to everything else, the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden is also renowned as something of a wildlife refuge. Little wonder really, given that more than 90 species of birds have been recorded either nesting or feeding in the garden’s lush surrounds. Although the variety of avian attractions is wide-ranging, for birding enthusiasts the main draw undoubtedly is the waterfowl. Bufflehead, Hooded Merganser, White-Fronted Goose, and Ruddy Duck are among the species very much at home on the lake which serves as the garden’s centerpiece.
A word to the wise. The attitude of the garden’s human-habituated birds towards people ranges from impassive to downright cantankerous. So think twice before shooing away a path-hogging goose. Moreover, as is the norm, it is prohibited to feed any of the wildlife.
The Garden’s Amenities
The Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden boasts a well-maintained network of paths – all of which, it should be said, are wheelchair accessible. Adding to the aesthetic appeal, the path network sweeps across a pair of stunning architectural bridges. Benches, it should be noted, are numerous. As, indeed, are information placards, which meticulously catalog the garden’s many species of flora.
On top of that, the garden also provides on-site bathrooms and parking. Although, admittedly, the parking lot is a little on the small side.
A Little History
Upon opening in 1950, the garden was initially intended to serve as a test garden. However, it soon became clear – due to problems related to security and protection – that this particular vision was something of a nonstarter. Facing this new reality, the project was consciously evolved into the garden we know today. A transition that gathered pace when the garden was officially dubbed the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden in 1964. And, which was further consolidated by the addition of the Wallace K. Huntington-designed Peninsula section in 1977.
Admission & Opening Hours
For everyone other than children under 10 years of age – for whom admission is free – entry to the garden costs a very reasonable $5.
With one exception, the garden is open each day between 10 am-4 pm. The odd day out is Wednesday when the opening hours are restricted to between 1 pm-4 pm.