Named for W.S. Ladd's "Crystal Springs Farm," Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden has more than 2000 species of hybrid rhododendrons, azaleas, magnolias and related plants growing in garden arrangements. The garden covers approximately five acres in the Eastmoreland neighborhood of southeast Portland.
By special ordinance with the City of Portland, the garden was established in 1950 to be jointly maintained and administered by the Portland Parks and Recreation Department and the Portland Chapter of the American Rhododendron Society as a test area for rhododendrons, azaleas, and ericacious plants.
The first planting started in October of 1950 with the transplanting of three rhododendron hybrid Cynthia which were donated and came from the home of Mr. C. P. Keyser, Superintendent of Parks. These rhododendrons were approximately 40 years old when they were moved and can be seen today surrounding the dedication plaque.
The aims of the test garden were to test rhododendron and azaleas subject to the rules of the American Rhododendron Society, to grant awards to worthy varieties and to acquaint the public with all kinds of rhododendron, thus serving as an educational as well as scientific project.
While no longer used for testing, today the garden offers extraordinary vistas of mature rhododendrons and companion plants. Surrounded almost completely by water, in a grove of towering trees and featuring three spectacular waterfalls and a high fountain, the site provides a beautiful backdrop for the many weddings held here. The garden is enjoyed by thousands of visitors each year.
The garden is also the site of the Portland Chapter of the American Rhododendron Society's many flower shows and plant sales. One show is on the first Saturday in April. The two day show is on Mopt6her's Day weekend, the second weekend in May.
The garden paths have recently been redesigned to bring the park into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. There are now routes available through the park that are wheelchair accessible.
Through the new entrance gatehouse, the path comes to a high arched bridge where views can be taken of several landscaped waterfalls. Other waterfalls can be seen in other parts of the garden. Another newly rebuilt bridge crosses over Crystal Springs Lake to the far portion of the garden where the exhibition hall is located.
The rhododendrons are in bloom from early March through the middle of June. The peak bloom period coincides with Mother's Day in May.
The beautiful backdrop of Crystal Springs Garden is the site for many weddings each year. If you would like to find out how you can book the garden for your special day, click here for Weddings and other events.