Lotusland

Photography by Marc Appleton

Lotusland is a magical and rare place located in Santa Barbara, CA. This sprawling botanical garden was founded by former opera singer, and many times divorced socialite, Madame Ganna Walksa. Deciding six husbands was enough, she turned her attention full time to creating her amazing gardens. Tucked in a unique microclimate, Walksa and her gardeners were able to grow nearly any plant they chose. Her nearly 30 unique gardens run the gamut from cycads, to tropicals, Australian to Japanese. Many of the plenty are very rare and protected. Appleton’s photography does justice to this incredible garden. Check out photos at https://www.lotusland.org/gardens/gallery/