In 1853, Queen Kalama leased a small area of land, near to the growing port of
Honolulu Harbor, to young German doctor William Hillebrand who was a physician
and a botanist. He and his wife built a home on what is now the
main terrace of Foster Gardens. After 25 years in Hawaii Dr. Hillebrand
returned to Germany and published "Flora of the Hawaiian Islands" (1888).
The property was then sold to Captain Thomas Foster and his wife Mary
who continued to develop the garden. After Mary's death in the 1930s
the 5+ acre site was given to the City of Honolulu. Over the years,
Foster Garden has expanded to a 13 acre site. It continues to be a
a living museum of tropical plants, many of which are now rare
and endangered. Located within walking distance of busy downtown
Honolulu, Foster Gardens is a true gem and a welcome respite from
the hectic life in the city.