Magnolias are incredibly diverse, appearing in many forms, colors, and sizes, and they are actually the defining genus of an entire order of plants, the Magnoliales, whose members also include the pawpaw, tulip trees, and custard apples.
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The nodding, bell-shaped inflorescences of the Lenten rose resemble muted, antique-hued hoop skirts. Hellebore blooms open as early as December in some areas, and their color and form persist for up to 4 or 5 months!
As the daylight and temperatures increase, a noteworthy plant emerging from the dormant winter landscape can be seen. Scilla, commonly referred to as squill, is a member of the Asparagaceae family and is a perennial herbaceous plant.
Flowering bulbs are often the first sign of spring, with some pushing their blooms through the snow as early as February and March. Learn about the species and varieties in the Arboretum’s permanent collections by using our interactive bulb map.
Witch hazels are large deciduous shrubs that offer year-round ornamental interest in the landscape, including fragrant flowers in the winter, spring, and fall (depending on the species).
Spring’s arrival may still feel out of reach here in Central Pennsylvania, however, there are still many evergreen plants on display adding seasonal interest to your Arboretum winter walk!
Our skilled horticulture team, staff, and volunteers have been hard at work creating holiday cheer. Take a stroll through the gardens this winter season and view our festive seasonal displays, complete with planted containers, decorated trees, hand-made wreaths, and winter light displays!
As the autumn leaves fall and the vibrant foliage fades, few plants will stand out in the gray of winter. One such plant is Cornus sericea, commonly known as the red-twig dogwood or red-osier dogwood.
The Arboretum is crazy for cucurbits and celebrates them every autumn by livening up our seasonal displays and hosting our annual Pumpkin Fest that all are welcome to attend each October! The colorful bounty that you may see when strolling the gardens this fall showcases the Cucurbitaceae family, which includes squash, cucumbers, and melons.
Come to the Arboretum to learn about, and maybe even sample, an early fall treat in the form of a pawpaw! The pawpaw (Asimina triloba) is a small, understory deciduous tree in the Annonaceae, or custard apple, family that is native to Pennsylvania.