Hawaii · Est. 1853
Foster Botanical Garden
The oldest botanical garden in Hawaii, featuring a mature and impressive collection of tropical plants.
Founded
1853
Size
14 acres
Hardiness Zone
USDA Zone 12b
Best Season
Year-round, with spring and summer offering peak blooming for many tropical flowers.
About Foster Botanical Garden
Located in the heart of metropolitan Honolulu, Foster Botanical Garden is a 13.5-acre tropical oasis and the oldest of the Honolulu Botanical Gardens. It features rare species from tropical environments, comprising one of the most diverse tropical plant collections in the United States. The garden is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and contains 25 of Oahu's designated exceptional trees.
History & Heritage
The garden's origins date back to 1853 when Queen Kalama leased land to William Hillebrand, a German physician and botanist who introduced many plants to Hawaii. In 1884, the property was sold to Thomas and Mary Foster, who continued to develop the site. Upon her death in 1930, Mary Foster bequeathed the land to the City and County of Honolulu to be maintained as a public tropical park. Dr. Harold Lyon, the first director, introduced thousands of new plants and started the famous orchid collection.
Signature Feature
Exceptional Trees Collection
The garden is home to 25 of the approximately 100 trees on Oahu designated as 'exceptional' by the state. Among these is a Sacred Fig tree, which is a clone descendant of the Bodhi tree under which the Buddha sat for inspiration. Many of the large trees on the Upper Terrace date back to William Hillebrand's original plantings in the 1850s.
Photo Gallery
Lush tropical foliage in the Middle Terraces
Vibrant orchids in the Lyon Orchid Garden
Towering palm trees lining the garden pathways
Notable Collections
Upper Terrace
The oldest part of the garden, featuring large, historic trees planted by William Hillebrand in the 1850s.
Middle Terraces
A lush area showcasing collections of palms, aroids, heliconias, and gingers.
Economic Garden
A collection of plants used for herbs, spices, dyes, and poisons.
Prehistoric Glen
A fascinating display of primitive plants, including cycads, planted in 1965.
Recognition & Awards
- National Register of Historic Places (1993)
- Home to 25 Oahu Exceptional Trees
Editorial Standards
This profile was researched and written by the BotanicalGardens.blog editorial team, which includes certified Master Gardeners and horticultural writers with field experience across the United States. All admission prices, hours, and garden details are verified against official garden websites and updated May 2026. If you notice an inaccuracy, please contact us.
Plan Your Visit
Year-round, with spring and summer offering peak blooming for many tropical flowers.
Address
50 N. Vineyard Blvd., Honolulu, HI 96817
Phone
(808) 768-7135
Hours
Open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Admission
Adults: $5; Hawaii Residents: $3; Children 6-12: $1; Children under 5: Free
Insider Tips
- 1Take advantage of the free guided tours offered at 10:30 AM on select days (reservations recommended).
- 2Bring insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be present in the lush, tropical environment.
- 3Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the different terraces and collections.
- 4Don't miss the Sacred Fig tree and the outdoor sculptures scattered throughout the grounds.
Nearby Attractions
- Chinatown Honolulu (0.5 miles)
- Iolani Palace (0.8 miles)
- Hawaii State Art Museum (0.7 miles)