Stunning flowers, busy bees, and well-manicured bonsai trees are among the sights and sounds that titillate the senses at The North Carolina Arboretum. A short drive from Asheville, the expansive woodland features some 65 acres of dedicated gardens in their prime this time of year.
Explore 10 permanent garden exhibits, such as the National Native Azalea Collection—a colorful universe of star-shaped blossoms in orange, hot pink, and more. Nearly every azalea species native to the U.S. can be found along with several hybrids, all set among local ferns, wildflowers, and shrubs. The Quilt Garden’s stunning block-print pattern (pictured on the previous page) pays homage to one of the area’s popular handicrafts.
The Bonsai Exhibition Garden showcases a world-renowned collection and offers tutelage into this unique art of pruning and training plants. Asian bonsai, tropical plants, and American species like eastern white pine are among more than 100 specimens on hand.
The arboretum hosts several events in the warmer months, including ArborEvenings when visitors can bring a picnic and stroll the gardens after hours while listening to live music. One Tuesday a month, during Meditative Mornings, landscaping equipment is silenced for two hours so patrons can relish nature’s soothing sounds.
Find our feature of the beautiful North Carolina Arboretum in our July/August 2022 issue.
Photography by John O’Hagan
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