A visit to the Chinese Garden at the Huntington

After visiting the Bonsai Collection at the Huntington, I carved out time to visit the adjacent Chinese Garden. It was an eye-opening experience!

Taking its inspiration from 16th and 17th century gardens in Suzho (near Shanghai), the 15-acre complex features a large pond, more than a dozen historically-inspired structures, and twelve different paving patterns.

Liu Fang Yuan, the Garden of Flowing Fragrance
(Note the “overlapping hexagons” paving pattern)

Yu Jing Tai – Terrace of the Jade Mirror

All visible construction materials for the garden were sourced in China and built by Suzhou artisans. The surrounding gardens include beautiful landscaping and massive viewing stones – also sourced from China.

Bu Tian – Patching Up the Sky

Circular doorway

Of course, I wasn’t just there to appreciate the garden – I’d been looking forward to seeing the penjing collection curated by local artist Che Zhao Sheng. Affectionately known as “Mr. Che,” Sheng created many of the penjing on display from scratch. Based on the work that went into these trees, I can’t begin to imagine how much time went into their creation, let alone their ongoing maintenance.

Spring growth starting to open

California juniper

The penjing collection represents a variety of styles, from trees that were indistinguishable from bonsai to more dramatic forms.

Juniper

Chinese elms made up a large portion of the collection. They’re an obvious species to work with as they’re incredibly malleable and grow well in Southern California.

Chinese elm

Tray planting – Chinese elm

I didn’t get as time with these trees as I’d liked so I’m already planning another visit to learn more about Mr. Che’s work. When I do, I’ll be sure to share more photos!

Twiggy cascade

Chinese elm