Just twenty blocks from Concord, California’s downtown Todos Santos Plaza, Markham Nature Park & Arboretum’s Tree Walk offers a serene escape. This haven is a demonstration of the city’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty.
The diversity of the gardens showcases the natural beauty of Concord and serves as a kind of living classroom, educating visitors about the importance of biodiversity and conservation. Whether you’re drawn to the unique flora of Australia, the tranquility of East Asia, or the native beauty of California, the Arboretum’s diverse gardens reflect the resilience and adaptability of nature in our region.
The journey begins with President’s Grove, a living tribute to early pioneers near the parking lot. It reflects the Arboretum’s rich history, where every leaf whispers stories of past leaders honored through carefully planted saplings.
Gardens from Around the World
Markham’s Tree Walk presents a diverse array of gardens, each presenting colors, scents, and textures from around the world.
The Australia Garden showcases the beauty of Australian flora, from vibrant blooms to unique foliage including Wollemi pine, Eucalyptus, Acacia, and Protea. The International Garden offers a global journey with curated plant selections from various corners of the world. The East Asia Garden includes meticulously pruned bonsai trees and selected plant varieties that demonstrate the serene landscapes of the Far East.
The South Africa Garden features the vibrant African Sumac and Proteus families from the Renostorveld and the Fynbos areas of the Western Cape.
The Mediterranean Europe Garden showcases flora like the strongly fragrant Sweet Bay Laurel. In Greek and Roman culture, the Bay Laurel was used to fashion wreaths as symbols of victory– the source of the expression to “rest on one’s laurels.”
The California Garden celebrates native plants, while the Bea Markham Garden emphasizes the importance of pollinators in maintaining a healthy environment.
And the Concord Community Garden stands as a collaborative space where residents come together to cultivate a shared green oasis. Roots of the Markham LegacyIn 1963, Concord acquired land for a nature park, which expanded when Ira and Bea Markham sold their 12-acre property to the city in 1966. This laid the groundwork for the future Markham Arboretum. Bea Markham’s subsequent work with the Park Department shaped its development, ensuring that their namesake park became a beacon of natural beauty and stewardship.
As you meander through the tree-lined paths, you’ll encounter placards sharing anecdotes about the Markham family’s contributions to enrich your experience. These stories breathe life into the landscape, providing context for the well-tended gardens that surround you.
Today’s Arboretum
Today the Arboretum thrives thanks to the ongoing support of the Concord community. Local volunteers, gardening enthusiasts, and environmental advocates band together to organize events, fundraisers, and workshops, ensuring that the Arboretum remains a vibrant and sustainable sanctuary.
As you wander through the gardens, you can’t help but feel a connection to the past — and a responsibility for the future.
Visit Concord sponsored my visit along with a group of IFWTWA journalists.
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Featured Photo appearing at top of post – Credit: © Janie Pace
