Photos by Cheryl Landes

Lakewold Gardens in University Place, south of Tacoma, is a horticulturist’s haven. A historic estate, the name of the gardens originate from a Middle Eastern term meaning lakewoods. The estate overlooks a lake and is a beautiful place to wander rain or shine.

Unlike many gardens in the Pacific Northwest, Lakewold showcases more native plants that do not bloom. The effect is a green tapestry of texture. The plants that do bloom provide colorful accents.

In 1987, Eulalie Wagner, the last resident here, donated the estate to The Friends of Lakewold on the condition that they raise an endowment to ensure that the gardens continued to be cared for. The gardens opened to the public two years later.

Read more about the history of the gardens.

Today’s tour is a stroll through the gardens on a misty, foggy day. Grab your umbrella and join me!

Learn more about some of the trees at Lakewold Gardens in seven short video tours.