See the Miracle of Butterfly Metamorphosis!
The Butterfly Pavilion at Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden unites science education and hands-on fun for visitors of all ages. The pavilion is open daily May 11 through July 28, 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.
The Butterfly Pavilion focuses on the relationship between local butterflies and native plant California habitats. Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden is a privately-funded nonprofit organization dedicated to California native plants.
Pavilion admission is $2 per person (plus Garden admission or membership). Garden admission is free for RSABG members; $8 adults, $6 seniors and students and $4 children age 3 – 12 (under 3 free).
Butterfly Observation Tips
- Wear light-colored clothing: Light-colored or white clothing may encourage a butterfly to land on you.
- Come when it’s warm, or cool: Butterflies take flight as temperatures rise.
- Slow down: These beautiful creatures are more likely to land on those who walk at a slower pace.
- Remember your camera: Before you head over, grab your camera. No tripods, please.
The discerning palate of caterpillars helps explain why so many butterfly species are threatened. The major cause of species disappearance in a given area is almost always habitat destruction and the elimination of the plants that they need to survive. In spite of our extensive urban sprawl, Southern California has many species of butterflies that are fairly abundant and easily attracted to flowers or food plants in local gardens. Native plants are ideal for butterfly gardening because they provide food sources and in turn butterflies aid in flower pollination.
About RSABG
Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden, founded in 1927 by Susanna Bixby Bryant, is the largest botanic garden dedicated exclusively to California native plants. The Garden is located on 86 acres in Claremont, approximately 35 miles east of Los Angeles. RSABG, a private, nonprofit organization, offers educational programs and special events throughout the year and is home of the Botany Department for Claremont Graduate University. The Garden offers a superb selection of California native plants for sale at Grow Native Nursery.
Visitor information
Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden is located at 1500 N. College Ave., Claremont, California. It is open daily from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., Jan. 1, July 4, Thanksgiving and Dec. 25. The California Garden Shop is open daily from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Admission: free for RSABG members; $8 adults; $6 seniors and students; $4 children 3-12; For more information please call (909) 625-8767 or visit www.rsabg.org.
