About

A man sitting on a bench looking at the pond

One of Canada's best collections of rhododendrons is on display at Finnerty Gardens on the University of Victoria grounds.

The garden contains over 4,000 different trees and shrubs with more than 1,500 rhododendron and azalea plants, including 200 collected rhododendron species, and a spectacular range of companion plants artistically displayed on a 2.6 hectare (6.5 acre) site at the southwest corner of UVic’s campus.

Complementing the plant life are three tranquil ponds, an inviting network of winding paths and dozens of benches, each with its own distinctive view of the gardens' ever-changing splendour.

Open year-round

The gardens have been carefully planned and developed to provide a rich and changing array of colour, scent, form and texture all year. In April and May, you will see the rhododendrons at their best. For a plant identification guide and map of the gardens, download our self-guided walking tour.

The gardens are open to the public every day during daylight hours. Allow at least one hour to tour the gardens. There is no admission charge.