As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Boyce Thompson Arboretum relies on admissions, donations, annual memberships, plant and merchandise sales and fundraising events to achieve our mission.
Volunteers support every operation and are the heart and soul of BTA. Major and Legacy Gifts have a long-term impact, providing support for buildings, gardens and large-scale programs.
Join
Donate
Our Donors
Boyce Thompson Arboretum gratefully acknowledges all of the individuals, corporations, small businesses and foundations that have supported the Arboretum’s mission to inspire appreciation and stewardship of desert plants, wildlife, and ecosystems through education, research and conservation, through their kind and generous donations.
Volunteer
There are many benefits to volunteering: you can take part in special projects and learn from professionals while you work together; you can be part of a close-knit community of volunteers; you can share your time, skills and talents with one of Arizona’s top natural attractions (and make a real difference!); and perhaps most importantly, you’ll have fun!
Active Volunteers
Receive volunteer updates, post your service hours and much more —
anytime, and from any device.
Annual Reports
#1Arb
Tag us on Instagram with
@btarboretum #1Arb
The Eucalyptus caesia is a true showstopper in bloom! Native to Western Australia, this small and graceful tree enchants with its silvery, powdery bark, and cascading pink or red flowers. These blossoms aren’t just a feast for the eyes—they’re also essential to pollinators like bees and birds, playing a vital role in their ecosystem.
#gilbert #mesa #desertbeauty #visitarizona #queencreek #exploreaz #aznature #chandleraz #tempeaz #santanvalley #arizonatrails #visitphoenix #arizonahiking #arizonahikes #explorenature #ExploreAZ #sonorandesert #thingstodoAZ #visitmesa
See What Everyone’s Talking About! The Wallace Desert Garden at Boyce Thompson Arboretum is a 13-acre masterpiece featuring over 5,000 plants from the world’s most arid regions.
Visitors say it’s “breathtaking” and “a must-see for nature lovers.” Walk among towering saguaros, vibrant succulents, and rare, endangered plants carefully curated to showcase the beauty and resilience of desert life.
Did You Know? This garden preserves plants that are vital to global desert ecosystems and offers a glimpse into sustainable landscaping for the future.
Don’t just wonder what it’s like, plan your visit today, and experience why this garden is one of the most talked-about attractions in the region.
Start your journey at btarboretum.org
#desertbeauty #visitarizona #arizona #mesa #queencreek #gilbert
The hedgehog cactus, particularly species like Echinocereus fasciculatus var. boyce-thompsonii, holds a rich legacy deeply intertwined with the history of Boyce Thompson Arboretum. This cactus was among the first planted at the arboretum in the 1920s and remains a symbol of our dedication to the preservation and appreciation of desert plants. Native to arid regions, these cacti are renowned for their stunning blooms and unique adaptations to survive harsh environments.
At the Arboretum, we take pride in conserving these iconic plants. Many species of hedgehog cactus, such as Echinocereus triglochidiatus var. arizonicus, are listed as endangered due to habitat loss and illegal harvesting. Our propagated plant sales program serves as a crucial initiative to combat this issue, providing sustainably grown cacti for the public while protecting wild populations. Additionally, cacti salvaged from construction sites are nurtured and given a new lease on life within our collections.
By supporting ethical propagation, research, and education, we aim to prevent further exploitation of these desert treasures. However, the challenges of conservation require a collective effort.
You can play a vital role in protecting the hedgehog cactus and other desert plants:
1. Avoid purchasing plants taken from the wild. Support organizations like ours that offer sustainably propagated specimens.
2. Contribute your time or resources to help our conservation programs thrive.
3. Educate others about the importance of desert plant conservation and the threats posed by habitat destruction and illegal harvesting.
Let’s ensure the beauty and resilience of the hedgehog cactus continue to inspire generations to come. Visit Boyce Thompson Arboretum to experience these marvels firsthand and join us in safeguarding our desert`s biodiversity!
Explore More & Get Involved Today at btarboretum.org
Boyce Thompson Arboretum is a sanctuary for birds. Recognized as one of Arizona’s top Audubon Important Bird Areas. On #nationalbirdday, celebrate the incredible biodiversity we protect every day.
Together, we’re making a difference.
Photos by Tim Lee
Did you know our resident coatis LOVE the myrtle tunnel in the canyon? These skilled foragers might take over the tunnel for a short feast because, hey, even wildlife deserves a lunch break!
If you see them snacking, please be patient and enjoy the show from a safe distance. The trail under the tunnel may be briefly closed, but the sight of these adorable creatures in action is totally worth it!
🎉 Happy New Year! 🎉
We’re open today, 8 AM–5 PM (last admission 4 PM).
Start 2025 surrounded by nature. Don’t miss out!
#desertbeauty #arizonatrails #exploreaz #aznature #queencreek #santanvalley #gilbert #chandleraz #tempeaz #mesa
A world of hiking and discovery is waiting. Plan your visit at btarboretum.org today!
Photos by Tim Lee
#birdingphotography #azbirding #birdinghotspot #naturelovers #ThingsToDoAZ #hikingarizona
Why do lizards do push-ups?