University of Washington Botanic Gardens

1. University of Washington Botanic GardensHistory

In 1934 the Washington Park Arboretum was founded. Fifty years later, the Center for Urban Horticulture opened. Then, in 2005 the University of Washington created the botanic gardens to create an area that would architecturally merge the ideas and facilities of the Washington Park Arboretum and Center for Urban Horticulture together. Since 2005, the Washington Park Arboretum has been maintained by the efforts of the City of Seattle and the University of Washington Botanic Gardens.

2. Gardens

• What themed gardens are in the Washington Park Arboretum?
  • The Washington Park Arboretum has several themed gardens, including the Pacific Connections Garden, Joseph A. Witt Winter Garden, Woodland Garden, Foster and Marsh Island, Rhododendron Glen, Azalea Way, and the Japanese Garden.
• What regions are represented in the Pacific Connections Garden?
  • The Pacific Connections Garden is home to plants from Cascadia, China, Chile, Australia, and New Zealand.
• What are the highlights of the Pacific Connections Garden?
  • Visitors can explore the New Zealand Forest, Gateway to Chile display, and Preview Gardens. Highlighted plants include the alpine bottlebrush and western red cedar.
• What is special about the Joseph A. Witt Winter Garden?
  • The Joseph A. Witt Winter Garden features plants that blossom from November to March, making it a standout feature of the Arboretum during the colder months.
• What plants can be seen in the Joseph A. Witt Winter Garden?
  • Brightly hued plants such as Berberis and Cyclamen coum contrast with the dense green firs and cedars.
• What is unique about the Woodland Garden?
  • The Woodland Garden is set among two ponds and a small stream that flows through a valley, creating a naturalistic atmosphere.
• What plants are found in the Woodland Garden?
  • Visitors can explore various maples, sourwood, and the Japanese spicebush.
• How does Foster and Marsh Island change throughout the seasons?
  • The colors and plant life on Foster and Marsh Island transform each season, from golden hues in fall to blossoming flowers in spring. In summer, the cottonwoods shed, creating a snow-like appearance.
• Where is Foster and Marsh Island located?
  • Visitors can find Foster and Marsh Island by following the Waterfront Trail to the end.
• What is the history of Rhododendron Glen?
  • Rhododendron Glen began when Dr. Cecil Tenny donated a large number of rhododendron plants to the Washington Park Arboretum.
• What plants are found in Rhododendron Glen?
  • The rhododendron species, which is native to Asia, blends perfectly with other plants such as ferns and magnolias.
• What is special about Azalea Way?
  • Azalea Way is a ¾ mile stretch that runs through the middle of the Washington Park Arboretum, featuring distinctly hued plants layered among dense evergreen trees.
• What are some highlighted plants on Azalea Way?
  • Two notable plants along Azalea Way are flowering cherries and azaleas.
• Who designed the Japanese Garden?
  • The Japanese Garden was designed by the renowned Kiyoshi Inoshita and Juki Iida.
• What features are in the Japanese Garden?
  • The 3.5-acre garden features approximately 580 granite stones and classic Japanese period architecture.

3. University of Washington Botanic Gardens Educational Opportunities

• What educational opportunities are available at the Washington Park Arboretum?
  • The Washington Park Arboretum, as part of the University of Washington Botanic Gardens, offers a variety of educational opportunities, including specialized tours, classes, workshops, and seminars.
• What is the specialized tour program?
  • The specialized tour program allows visitors to explore the gardens in a unique way. Visitors can choose to tour a specific number of gardens in-depth with a tour guide.
• What is the tram tour?
  • The tram tour is a handicap-accessible tour option designed for visitors who want to explore the gardens in a fast yet educational manner.
• What other educational programs are offered?
  • In addition to specialized tours, the Washington Park Arboretum offers a variety of classes, workshops, and seminars that are open to all visitors.
• Are classes divided by age?
  • Yes, many of the classes are divided by age group, but there are also special days for families and community days available.

2300 Arboretum Drive E Seattle, WA 98112, Phone: 206-543-8800