Our Plants

The plants and trees of Longwood, with the allure of their ephemeral beauty, bring us together to experience a spectacular ensemble of gardens and landscapes.

When we visit, we are united by the memories we share, by the stunning surroundings, and by the living network that is here for everyone to enjoy. 

What's in Bloom

See More of What's in Bloom

  • Japanese Camellia

    Japanese camellias have glossy evergreen leaves and rose-like flowers in various shades of pink, red, and white that bloom at Longwood throughout the winter.  These beautiful flowering shrubs were one of Pierre S. du Pont’s favorite flowers and one of the first species planted in the Conservatory upon its completion in 1921.

  • Cape Pond-lily

    Aponogeton distachyos is a water lily-like plant that produces floating leaves and fragrant flowers from tubers growing at the bottom of water bodies. It is beneficial for water gardens, as it helps to absorb excess nutrients, which can reduce algae growth. Large oblong leaves (to 3-6” long) lie flat on the water surface. The plant is also a popular choice for ponds and water gardens for its ability to grow in both shallow and deeper water areas, making it versatile in pond design. The flowers reportedly have a hawthorn-like fragrance, hence the additional common name of water hawthorn. In South Africa, this plant is commercially grown for its edible tubers that may be added to stews.

     

Discover Iconic Plants

Blooms in Action

Watch this stunning collection of time-lapse images of some of our iconic plants coming into bloom, captured by former research intern Ty Seely.

Camellia Breeding Process

Learn about the goals and process of our camellia breeding program.

Sensational Sprout

See our titan arum’s amazing transformation in this timelapse video.

A Fine Vine: Clematis

Join Jeff Jabco, an instructor in our Continuing Education program, as he showcases the top five Clematis in this year’s International Trial.

Everything’s Coming up Roses

Enjoy a walk through our Rose Arbor, showcasing the vibrant pink Rosa ‘American Pillar’.

Pierre’s Poplar

Meet one of the tallest trees at Longwood Gardens—and get a bird’s eye view as Longwood’s Arborists attempt to measure this champion tree.