The "Arb," as the UC Davis Arboretum is informally known, contains more than 33,000 trees and plants adapted to the Mediterranean climate (hot dry summers and short, cool and rainy winters) of California's Central Valley. The Arboretum stretches along the old north branch of Putah Creek, from the Davis Commons shopping mall on the eastern edge of campus to the University's far southwestern corner.
The Arb was founded in 1936 as an educational resource. Plantings are grouped according to horticultural themes or geographical origin. There are docent-led tours available. Self-guided tours are also an option. Signage provides information on individual plants in many areas of the grounds.
Each fall and spring, the Arboretum holds several plant sales. Experts are available at these events to provide information on optimal soil, light and other conditions that specific plants need to thrive.