Conifers are perfect to remain in awe of anytime of the year. Our Conifers (cone bearing woody plants both evergreen and deciduous ) are planted all over the Arboretum grounds. Some species include Spruce, Fir, Larch, Juniper, Arrborvitae, Pines and Chameacyparis. Today, there are a total of 1210 conifer taxa on grounds which consist of 26 genera from 5 families (including Ginkgo).
Most of the early conifer plantings were sited along the south end auto tour in the 1960's. A lot of these specimens are still doing well. However, the project of the Conifer Glen collection began in the early 1990’s and was designed by Horticulturist, Mike Ecker and Jeff Bowman. The inspiration came from a photograph taken of the conifer collection in Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest in Kent, England.
The Conifer Glen collection is one on grounds you don’t want to skip on your next visit. This specific section houses the highest concentration of Conifers and is a nationally accredited collection that is a part of the American Conifer Society. The species here are beautiful in every season, especially in the fall and wintertime with an immense amount of color found there.
Those planted within include miniature, dwarf, compact and large sized specimens artistically arranged to represent a beautiful, wild valley or Glen. Rock outcroppings are also present and weathered logs have been added to enhance the landscape.
The Conifer Glen is located next to Dawes Lake and the famous Hedge Letters. It has taken many years to develop and contains both common and rare plant specimens from all over the world. We strongly encourage stopping by the collection during your next visit to admire the majestic and unique conifers!