Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden in autumn (photos)

The Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, nestled in Southeast Portland between Reed College and the Eastmoreland Golf Course, is one of the most distinctive botanical gardens in the city. At 9.5 acres, the garden is also one of the city's largest – about 3 acres smaller than the Portland Japanese Garden.

Owned by the Portland Parks and Recreation Department but managed privately by the Portland chapter of the American Rhododendron Society, Crystal Springs was opened to the public in 1950 after management of the property was taken over by the Portland Chapter of the American Rhododendron Society. Before that, it was owned by former Portland mayor William S. Ladd, who purchased the property in 1923. The first rhododendron show was held in 1956, and the garden was officially named Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden in 1964.

With beauty and wildlife to see year round, spring is the most popular time to go. In early April, the garden has an "Early Show" consisting of hundreds of trusses with early blooming rhododendrons. On Mother's Day weekend, there's also a large rhododendron display. It's also a popular time of year for wedding photography. But fall offers its own beauty in the garden as leaves turn from green to shades of yellow, orange and red.

The park features more than 2,500 rhododendrons, azaleas and other companion plants that have been donated by volunteers and visitors or purchased with donation funds. While magnolias, Japanese maples and ferns help provide year-round attractions, many of the plant species are rare and lesser-known.

Also good to know info:

–The rocks used to build the waterfalls and other features were gathered from Mount Hood and Mount Adams.

–Wildlife is one of the main attractions at Crystal Springs. Visitors may see ducks, geese, herons and bald eagles. It's a popular layover location for migrating birds. Birders can often be found walking around the park with binoculars or cameras with long lenses.

–The oldest rhododendron in the current garden was planted in 1917.

–It's a popular wedding and portrait site for photography.

–Adjacent to the garden is Crystal Springs Lake, which provides colorful picturesque reflections.

–The garden is home to several charming footbridges.

If you visit:

The park entrance is at 5801 S.E. 28th Ave. General admission is $8.95, students (ages 6-21) get in for $5.95, and children 5 and younger are free. Hours are 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

To learn more or to ask questions, email or call 503-267-7509.