JC Raulston Arboretum

JC Raulston Arboretum in Raleigh, North Carolina, is a vibrant showcase of the botanical world, offering an array of captivating plant collections and garden designs. This living laboratory serves not only as a beautiful escape but also as a center for education and inspiration for gardeners and horticulturists alike.

Founded in 1976, the arboretum was named in honor of its visionary founder, Dr. J.C. Raulston, who was passionate about introducing diverse and adaptable plants to the landscapes of North America. His legacy thrives in the arboretum’s dynamic approach to plant evaluation and landscape teaching. The arboretum's mission is about more than just displaying plants; it’s about exploring new ideas and practices that can benefit gardens across the globe.

Visitors to the JC Raulston Arboretum can accomplish a lot in just a single visit. Whether you’re a budding botanist, a seasoned gardener, or simply someone who loves to wander amongst beautiful flora, there’s something here for everyone. Here’s what you can look forward to:

- **Exploring Themed Gardens**: Each garden, from the enchanting Japanese Garden with its serene aesthetics to the Color Trials Garden showcasing the brightest and most durable flowers, offers a unique view and educational experience.
- **Seasonal Displays**: The arboretum is ever-changing with the seasons. Spring brings cherry blossoms and vibrant tulips, while autumn cloaks the garden in the fiery hues of amber and gold.
- **Educational Programs**: With workshops, guided tours, and lectures, the arboretum is a great place to deepen your gardening knowledge or start from scratch.

The real expertise of the arboretum staff shines through in their meticulous care and innovative horticultural practices. They actively participate in global plant trials, testing how different species adapt to the southeastern United States climate. This not only helps in expanding the variety of plants available to local gardeners but also ensures that the arboretum remains at the cutting edge of botanical science.

Visiting the JC Raulston Arboretum also offers a unique piece of history. It's one of the few gardens in the United States dedicated to the active, ongoing collection and evaluation of new plant species for both aesthetic and practical use in landscapes. This commitment has placed it at the forefront of ecological and sustainable gardening.

• Take a leisurely stroll and soak in the tranquility.


• Participate in a plant identification workshop.


• Grab a bench and sketch or photograph your favorite scenes.

While the arboretum promotes cutting-edge garden techniques, it also maintains a charming balance of formality and whimsy—a true garden should, after all, delight the senses and the intellect. It’s a place where the professional meets the practical, and the exotic neighbors the familiar.

For those who might think a botanical garden is just about looking at plants, the JC Raulston Arboretum breaks the mold. It's a place where the beauty of nature meets human creativity, where each visit can offer something new to learn, see, or do. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a special event, the arboretum provides a picturesque backdrop that’s as educational as it is beautiful.

So next time you're in Raleigh, make sure to carve out time for the JC Raulston Arboretum—it’s a decision that promises beauty, learning, and maybe even a bit of unexpected inspiration.