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Two similar plant species caught my attention at the Morris this week because of their attractive and early season blooms: Galanthus nivalis (snowdrop) and Leucojum vernum (spring snowflake). ). Often called “harbingers of spring,” both are bulb plants and have nodding flowers, sometimes spotted peeking through snow (hence the common names).

Edgeworthia chrysantha is a shrub that bears fragrant flowers in the winter. While most genus names honor one person who is often a man, Edgeworthia commemorates a brother and his half-sister, each notable in their own right.

While the warmer winters in Philadelphia may not be normal in 2023, it could be normalized sooner than we think, and the Arboretum has been actively thinking ahead of climate change for over a decade. 

We are pleased to announce that the Morris Arboretum has received a first-time grant from Wawa in support of our Active-Duty Free Admission Program.

Metasequoia glyptostroboides (dawn-redwood) is a deciduous conifer from Central China that is often referred to as a “living fossil,” and the Morris Arboretum currently cultivates forty-eight of these majestic trees.

As we all prepare for colder months, many of our plants are doing the same: dropping their leaves, slowing glucose production, and storing excess food in their root systems. Some plants in our gardens are still displaying vibrant fall color, and others have even begun to bloom. I hope you enjoy stumbling upon these plants at the Arboretum and discovering new ones along the way.

Our very own Jason Lubar (Associate Director of Urban Forestry, Morris Arboretum) is featured on the latest episode of the Plant A Trillion Trees podcast.

Fall is finally upon us at the ArBOOretum! Complementing the creative and colorful scarecrows along the garden paths are spectacular hues from the plants in our collection. From bright purple berries and vibrant pink flowers to fiery fall color, there is lots to see and explore.