Explore Longwood Gardens

A cone tree of strings of blue lights is reflected in a pool, amid uplit deciduous trees.
Laurie Carrozzino

Longwood Gardens, one of America’s quintessential landscapes, is a place of ever-changing seasonal beauty, handcrafted feats of horticultural wonder, and an awe-inspiring collection of the most beautiful plants from around the globe. 

From our humble beginnings as a Quaker farmstead and arboretum, to Pierre S. du Pont’s forward-thinking stewardship, to today’s collection of renowned landscape designers, horticulturists, and architects, our great garden of the world evolves and emerges again and again.

Through Longwood Gardens and its program of outstanding horticultural display, every visitor to the Gardens has the opportunity to gain, culturally and spiritually, a better peace of mind.

Russell J. Seibert, Longwood’s first director

Explore nearly 200 acres of lush, formal gardens, open meadows, and winding paths to breathtaking Brandywine Valley vistas. Together, mesmerizing displays, feats of engineering, and science-based research and conservation work harmoniously toward the overarching goal to unite and inspire our guests in appreciation of beauty—as only Longwood can. 

Explore Our Gardens

View All Gardens
  • Our Districts
    A stone path winds through a lush room of colorful plants with a hanging light above

    Our Districts

    Explore nearly 200 acres of lush, formal gardens, open meadows, and winding paths.

  • Our Seasons
    looking through fall leaves to the canopy cathedral treehouse

    Our Seasons

    We honor the four seasons with five unique Longwood seasons, celebrating the bounty of our gardens throughout the cycles of renewal, growth, and ever-evolving splendor. 

  • Our Plants
    close up of orange Clivia Miniata with green and yellow center

    Our Plants

    Explore over 10,000 species and varieties of plants, representing 200 different plant families. 

  • Our Science
    A person holds a small vial with plant material inside in a lab

    Our Science

    Our scientific work lays the groundwork for discoveries that expand our understanding of the natural world and help perpetuate and celebrate its beauty for generations to come.

What's in Bloom

See More of What's in Bloom

  • Amaryllis

    Hippeastrum is a bulb native to tropical South America, celebrated for its tall stems and large, star-shaped blooms, fitting, since its name means “horse star” in Greek. It is often associated with pride, determination, and radiant beauty. Its tall, majestic stem and striking blooms symbolize strength and determination, making it a perfect gift for someone facing a challenge or embarking on a new journey! Commonly mistaken for true amaryllis, this bulb is remarkably easy to grow indoors. Plant it with the top third exposed, keep the soil lightly moist, and give it bright light. After flowering, the long, strap-like leaves help recharge the bulb, so continue watering and feeding until the foliage naturally dies back. For reblooming, allow the bulb to go dormant by keeping it cool, dry, with no water for about 8–10 weeks. With just a little care, Hippeastrum will reward you year after year with a burst of tropical brilliance. 

  • American Holly

    American holly is a large shrub or tree, generally pyramidal, with alternating spiny, evergreen leaves. In October, female plants produce red berry-like fruit that persists into winter. A nearby male pollinator is necessary for fruit production. This native species is cold hardy (USDA zones 5 to 9), tolerant of pollution, drought, and moderately wet sites, and is resistant to deer browsing. Planted in acidic, moist, well-drained soil, it will tolerate any light conditions but prefers full sun and protection from wind.