Layout of the Arboretum

Click on a site above for a description and a detailed map

The Arboretum is planted in sites roughly corresponding to major biogeographical areas of Virginia --valley, mountains, piedmont, coastal plain - with an additional area devoted to lowland species.
Native and naturalized species are included in each site. "Native" plants are believed to be indigenous to Virginia. "Naturalized" species are those that have been introduced into the State, either accidentally or deliberately, and which spread readily into other areas.
Each woody plant in the arboretum has been assigned a number, generally in order of planting date. Identifying plant numbers are found on white wooden stakes located near the base of each specimen. These numbers are used in the map and listing. Each woody plant can also be identified by a metal tag, generally hanging on a branch above the wooden number stake. On the tag is inscribed the scientific name, the common name, and the plant number. Newer tags also have the designation "native' or "naturalized", as established in Atlas of the Virginia Flora by Harvill, Bradley, Stevens et al., 3rd ed.