Our Plants

The bright red berries produced in the fall, are a high-fat food source for over 36 species of birds, including wild turkeys, cardinals, and robins.  The tree supports more than 100 species of moths and butterflies, which lay their eggs on dogwood leaves—making it essential for local food webs. Because it flowers early, it’s also a critical nectar source for pollinators just coming out of winter dormancy. In fact, its ecological value is so high that Cornus florida is often promoted in native plant gardening for habitat restoration.  While the tree is too small for lumber, dogwood wood is incredibly hard and dense. It’s been used historically for golf club heads and handles for tools and knives. 

This display of bonsai, on loan from the Kennett Collection, features early spring blooming Kurume azaleas, known for their bright flower colors and evergreen foliage. Also know as Japanese azaleas, this type of hybrid has been grown in Japan since as early as the late 1600's.  Obtained as full-sized shrubs from Fairmount Park in Philadelphia, these Kurume azaleas were given to the United States from France as part of the Centennial celebration.  Grown in the clump style, training began in 1980.