40 Facts About National Arboretum

A Glimpse into the National Arboretum

The United States National Arboretum in Washington, D.C., is a botanical wonderland. Spanning 446 acres, it offers a blend of research, education, and public enjoyment. Here are some fascinating facts about this green gem.

1. Establishment: The National Arboretum was formally established by an act of Congress on March 4, 1927. This marked the beginning of its journey as a center for botanical research and public education.

2. Location: Situated just 2.2 miles northeast of the Capitol building, the arboretum is easily accessible with entrances on New York Avenue, NE and R Street, NE.

3. Size: Covering 446 acres, the arboretum's rolling forested terrain includes Mt. Hamilton, which offers stunning views of the Capitol.

Research and Collections

The National Arboretum is not just a beautiful garden; it's a hub for scientific research and plant collections.

4. Research Facility: It functions as a major center of botanical research, focusing on trees, shrubs, turf, and the development of new ornamental plants.

5. ARS Integration: In 1953, the arboretum became part of the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS), enhancing its research capabilities.

6. Historic Landmark: Listed as a Category II Landmark in the National Register of Historic Places on April 11, 1973, the arboretum holds historical significance.

7. Collections: It houses an extensive herbarium of over 800,000 specimens, documenting wild and cultivated plant diversity.

8. Herbarium Collections: This includes a permanent reference collection of 700,000 specimens of dried, pressed plants for scientific studies in various fields.

9. Seed Herbarium: The National Seed Herbarium contains 120,000 samples of preserved seeds and fruits, aiding plant identification for researchers and federal agencies.

Gardens and Exhibits

The arboretum's gardens and exhibits are a testament to its dedication to plant diversity and public education.

10. Gardens and Exhibits: Display gardens grew from early research interests into specific plant groups and collaborations with garden clubs and plant societies.

11. Asian Collections: Featuring trees from East Asia, including Japanese maples, cherry blossoms, and Chinese dogwoods, these collections are a highlight.

12. National Bonsai & Penjing Museum: Established in 1976, this museum is the world’s first dedicated to the art of bonsai.

13. National Herb Garden: This garden displays herbs from around the world in themed gardens and a cottage-style design filled with companion plantings, including heritage roses.

14. Azalea Collections: Renowned for its stunning azalea blooms in spring, the arboretum features a wide range of colors and varieties.

15. Gotelli Conifer Collection: Showcasing a variety of coniferous trees, including pine, spruce, fir, and cedar species, this collection is a must-see.

Educational and Public Programs

The arboretum offers numerous educational programs and public activities to engage visitors.

16. National Grove of State Trees: This display features trees representing the 50 states and the District of Columbia, with each plot home to a state's official tree species or another indigenous species better suited to local climate conditions.

17. Educational Programs: Various programs, including guided and self-guided tours, highlight the diverse plant collections and ecological systems.

18. Visitor Center: Providing information about the arboretum's history, gardens, and research activities, the visitor center also offers educational materials and resources.

19. Scientific Research: Supporting the ornamental tree industry, the arboretum's research has led to the development of new tree species and improvements in existing ones.

20. Plant Introductions: A third of all crepe myrtles sold in the U.S. are arboretum introductions or derived from them, showcasing its impact on the ornamental plant industry.

Historical and Ecological Significance

The arboretum's history and ecological contributions are noteworthy.

21. Hydrological Systems: Historical property maps from 1863 show the site’s hydrological systems, cropland, and orchards, influencing the development of rural trails and roads within the arboretum.

22. Ecological Imprints: The land has always had human and ecological imprints, with scientists traveling through rural China to secure seeds from a rare Chinese tree.

23. Tree Taxonomies: Researchers study tree taxonomies, genetics, breeding, and virology to improve understanding and cultivation of various plant species.

24. Rare Plant Collections: Featuring rare Asian plants, including a Chinese tree from the Camellia family, the arboretum showcases unique botanical treasures.

25. Contemporary Ecological Garden Design: Designed by landscape architects Claudia West and Thomas Rainer, the garden emphasizes self-sustaining ecosystems and ecosystem knowledge.

Visitor Experience

The arboretum offers a unique experience for visitors, blending science, art, and nature.

26. New American Garden Style: Associated with the New American Garden style, characterized by artful layers of native plants, pioneered by landscape architecture firm Oehme van Sweden in the 1980s.

27. Public Access: Open to the public, the arboretum provides an opportunity to explore diverse ecological systems and cultural aspects.

28. Annual Visitation: Over 710,000 visitors annually explore the gardens, collections, and natural areas, making it a significant cultural and educational destination.

29. Budget and Funding: Receiving federal appropriations, with a budget of $15,105,919 for FY24, the arboretum also relies on private donations and support from organizations like the Friends of the National Arboretum.

30. Staff and Volunteers: With 66 employees and over 70 volunteers, the arboretum thrives on the dedication of its team in various areas, including horticulture, research, and education.

31. Internships: Offering internships in horticulture, research, and education, the arboretum provides hands-on experience for students and professionals.

Seasonal Highlights and Special Features

The arboretum's seasonal highlights and special features attract visitors year-round.

32. Cherry Blossoms: Home to three dozen cherry blossom trees, the arboretum offers a delightful experience during the blooming season with a self-guided tour including 40 stops.

33. Ecological Systems: Featuring diverse ecological systems, including restored riparian habitats like Spring House Run, the arboretum provides insights into local flora and fauna.

34. National Capitol Columns: The iconic National Capitol Columns create a picturesque landmark within the arboretum, adding to its cultural and historical significance.

35. Gentrifying Communities: Bordering diverse, gentrifying communities such as Gateway, Ivy City, and Carver/Langston, the arboretum reflects the urban-rural interface and the importance of green spaces in metropolitan areas.

Research Locations and Scientific Discoveries

The arboretum's research extends beyond its main campus, contributing to scientific discoveries.

36. Research Locations: In addition to the main campus in Washington, D.C., the arboretum has research locations at the Henry A. Wallace Beltsville Agricultural Research Center in Beltsville, Maryland, and in McMinnville, Tennessee.

37. Scientific Discoveries: Scientists at the arboretum have developed over 650 new trees, shrubs, and floral plants, including azaleas of various colors and magnolias with long-lasting blooms.

38. Exotic Plant Exhibits: Showcasing exotic plant exhibits from South Africa, the arboretum features unique diversity and richness of flowering plants, including exotic bulb plants related to well-known flowers like gladiolus and amaryllis.

39. Educational Value: Serving as a living museum, the arboretum provides educational value through its extensive collections of plants, gardens, and exhibits that highlight the importance of botanical research and conservation.

40. Public Enjoyment: The National Arboretum blends scientific research, educational programs, and public enjoyment, making it a significant cultural and educational destination in the nation's capital.

Final Thoughts on the National Arboretum

The National Arboretum in Washington, D.C., is a treasure trove of botanical wonders and scientific research. Established in 1927, this 446-acre haven offers a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and educational value. From the stunning Azalea Collections to the serene National Bonsai & Penjing Museum, there's something for everyone. The arboretum's role in developing new plant species and supporting the ornamental tree industry is noteworthy. With over 710,000 visitors annually, it’s clear this place holds a special spot in many hearts. Whether you're a plant enthusiast, a researcher, or just someone looking to enjoy a peaceful day outdoors, the National Arboretum has plenty to offer. So, next time you're in D.C., make sure to carve out some time to explore this incredible living museum. You won't regret it!