Moorten Botanical Gardens in Palm Springs is a must for cacti-lovers. The private garden was established in 1938 by husband and wife, Patricia and Chester Moorten who were desert plant specialists. Their home is called Cactus Castle, and has 2 foot thick walls to keep out the desert sun. It is situated at the center of the garden, and surrounding it the botanical gardens are divided into seven desert landscapes including Mojave, Central Mexico and Colorado.
Visitors follow the nature trail to discover over 3,000 species of desert and heat-loving plants. These include all kinds of cacti from miniatures to giant specimens, agaves and prickly pears. There are aloes from southern Africa and Madagascar, and American acacia and Californian fan palms. Spot birds and lizards living amongst the rocks of the desert landscapes.
The greenhouse holds the 'Cactarium' and includes a vast array of rare cacti and succulents. Examples include the unique caudiciform species and rare plants from the Namibian desert. Through the garden are Native Indian artifacts and rock, wood and crystal collections. There is also a giant petrified tree and artifacts from the pioneering and gold-mining days.
There is a nursery selling the plants featured in the gardens and other souvenirs. The garden is available for parties, exhibitions, concerts and weddings. It has also been used for film and photography shoots. The garden is open Monday and Tuesday and Thursday through Saturday 9.00am - 4.30pm and Sunday 10.00am — 4.00pm. Admission prices are $3 for adults and $1.50 for children.
