2_visitor's 2011 guide to greater philadelphia gardens' favorite trees

8/6/2019 2_Visitor's 2011 Guide to Greater Philadelphia Gardens' Favorite Trees

1/34

2011

Coordinated by

Louise R. Eliason

March 30, 2011

Arbor Day Visitors Guide to Our

Favorite Trees


2/34

2011 Guide to Greater Philadelphia Gardens

Find amazing tree houses, events and exhibits allyear-long for kids, teens, and adults at

www.GreaterPhiladelphiaGardens.org
http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/


3/34


Arbor Day 2011 www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org Page | 3

Table of Contents

I. Awbury Arboretum

Favorite Trees. ...5

II. The Arboretum at the Barnes Foundation

Favorite Trees..6

III. Bartrams Garden

Favorite Trees..8

IV. Bowman s Hill Wildflower Preserve

Favorite Trees..9

V. Brandywine Conservancy

Favorite Trees....10

VI. Cabrini College


VII. Chanticleer


VIII. Hagley Museum and Library

Favorite Trees....15What is a Delaware Champion Tree? ...............................................................16

IX. Haverford College Arboretum


X. Henry Schmeider Arboretum of Delaware Valley College


XI. Jenkins Arboretum & Garden


XII. Longwood Gardens


What is A Pennsylvania Champion Tree? .......................................................23

XIII. Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania

Favorite Trees........................................................................................................24
http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/


4/34



Table of Contents (continued)

XIV. Pennsylvania Horticultural Society

Favorite Trees.....................................................................................................26

XV. Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College

Favorite Trees.....................................................................................................27

XVI. Shofuso Japanese House and Garden

Favorite Trees. 29

XVII. Ambler Arboretum of Temple University

Favorite Trees. 29

XVIII. Tyler Arboretum

Favorite Trees.31

XIX. Winterthur

Favorite Trees.32

About Our Favorite Trees:

From Greater Philadelphia Gardens champion, exotic, and most picturesque trees toPennsylvania Horticultural Societys huge Plant One Million tree initiative, this introductory

guide is intended to help you and your family, friends, classmates or tour groups discover some

of our favorite trees. And when you discover your own favorite tree or if you plant one this

Spring, please share your tree images, comments and any Arbor Day projects with us on

Greater Philadelphia Gardens Facebook! (click the blue FacebookF on ourwebsite homepage)

About Greater Philadelphia Gardens

In the 1970s, several horticultural leaders joined together topromote Americas horticultural

history in this region so as to encourage visitors to their gardens. In 2007, that gardencollaborative, one of the first in the country, evolved into Greater Philadelphia Gardens. Todayits 30 member public gardens and arboreta attract more than two million visitors each year.

Greater Philadelphia Gardens offers a central online source for visitors to easily find theirfavorite public gardens displays, events and programs, and to discover lesser-known gemsnearby as well. Discover 30 public gardens within 30 miles of Philadelphia in Americas GardenCapital today atwww.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org
http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.facebook.com/pages/Greater-Philadelphia-Gardens/279633395790http://www.facebook.com/pages/Greater-Philadelphia-Gardens/279633395790http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.facebook.com/pages/Greater-Philadelphia-Gardens/279633395790http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/


5/34



Visitors Self-Tour Guide to Favorite Trees in Greater Philadelphia GardensDiscover some of our tallest, oldest, most unusual and magnificent trees!

Visitwww.GreaterPhiladelphiaGardens.org, and find 30 member public gardens information andevents listed all on one website. Sign up for our newsletters and become a friend on Facebook toreceive future event notices. But most of all, plan a visit to public gardens and arboreta today!

I. Awbury ArboretumFrancis Cope House, One Awbury Road, Philadelphia, PA 19138 (215) 849-2855

Awbury Arboretums Favorite Trees

1.) Shagbark Hickory (Carya ovata) Type: Native, Deciduous Shade Tree

Shagbark hickory is a native North American tree aptly named for its distinctive bark.

Young shagbarks have smooth, grey, striped bark, while mature trees

exhibit the species characteristic shaggy bark ragged-looking plates

curling away from the trunk in long, vertical strips. Shagbark hickory is a

member of the walnut family, and produces edible nuts. Shagbark nuts are

an important food source for many wildlife species. In the landscape,

shagbark hickory is often used as a specimen tree, and its large compound

leaves provide medium shade. In the fall, shagbark leaves turn a striking

burnt yellow. Awbury Arboretum hosts several shagbark hickories, and

this stately specimen is easily visible in the vista from the front porch of

the Francis Cope House.

2.) Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum)

Type: Native, Deciduous Shade Tree

Sugar maple is perhaps the most well-known native North American treeand with good

reason. Commercial value for maple sugaring and wood

products aside, sugar maples grown in an open landscape

have a pleasing, symmetrical round-oval shape, and

display fantastic fall colorfrom pure golden orange toclear yellows and deep reds.

Sugar maples flower in early spring with delicate,

dangling clusters of yellow-green flowers. Sugar maple flowers mature into the familiar
http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/


6/34



Awbury Arboretums Favorite Trees (continued)

wind-borne helicopter-shaped double-samaras that have delighted children andchildren-at-heart throughout the centuries.

Against the backdrop of the Francis Cope House, Awburys sugar maple provides a

warm, familiar shape, welcome shade in the summer and a fiery display in the fall.

3.) American Basswood (Tilia americana)Type: Native, Deciduous Shade Tree

The American basswood (also known as American linden) is a

native North American tree most often utilized in landscape design

for its stately form and the deep shade it provides in the summer.

The basswoods large, heart-shaped leaves are darker on the top

than the bottom, giving the tree a shimmering quality in the

breeze.

In late spring, the American basswood produces clusters of

fragrant, whitish-yellow flowers. Basswood flowers are a favorite

nectar source for honeybees. In flowering season, the presence of a basswood can be

detected from quite a distance away by the collective buzzing produced by the thousands

of bees in its crown.

Basswood flower honey has a distinctive taste and is highly sought-after by beekeepers

and honey connoisseurs. In the fall, the small nuts produced by the basswood are animportant food source for squirrels, chipmunks, mice, and other small animals. This truly

spectacular multiple-trunked specimen, estimated to be around 130 years old, is located

near the Francis Cope House at Awbury Arboretum, and is a highlight in the English

romantic landscape design.

II. Arboretum at the Barnes Foundation300 North Latch's Lane, Merion, PA 19066 Phone: 610.667.0290For current admission dates, times andevents, classes, and information visit:www.GreaterPhiladelphiaGardens.org

Arboretum at the Barnes Foundations Favorite Trees

Source: Dr. Jacob Thomas, Director,The Barnes Foundation

This arboretum features many rare and mature plants not common in this region.
http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/


7/34



Arboretum at the Barnes Foundations Favorite Trees

1) Stewartia (S. koreana, S. monadelpha, S. pseudocamellia, S. rostrata, S. serrata and S.

sinensis) Type: Non-native, ornamental deciduous

The Stewartia grove in the Arboretum at the Barnes

Foundation probably has the nicest specimens in this

region (S. koreana, S. monadelpha, S.

pseudocamellia, S. rostrata, S. serrata and S.

sinensis).

Commonly known as Japanese Stewartia, Chinese Stewartia, KoreanStewartia, Tall Stewartia ,etc this genus of 12 species of deciduous,

handsome, ornamental shrubs or small trees offers excellent winter

color. The grayish-brown or reddish-brown, smooth, muscle-like

exfoliating bark has a camouflaged or mottled appearance with

patterns of dull orange and green mixed with grey.

In summer, the Stewartia blossoms with single, showy white flowers with yellow-orangeanthers. The foliage is deep green in summer and orange-scarlet or reddish in fall.(USDA H. Zone 5 - 8).

The genus commemorates John Stuart, third Earl of Bute (1713-92), a descendant of the

House of Stuart who together with Dowager Princess of Wales created the Kew Gardens.

2) Monkey-puzzle tree or Chilean Pine

(Araucaria araucana) Type: Sub-tropical conifer

Laura Barnes got this exquisite specimen from the

Brimfield Nurseries in Connecticut in 1960. She planted

it close to her residence facing the big lawn amidst acollection of dwarf conifers (which were later removed).

It is a beautiful, live example of her experiments with

unusual plants.


8/34



The Barnes Foundation Arboretums Favorite Trees (Monkey-puzzle tree continued)

This resinous and evergreen coniferous timber tree has an

ovoid-conic crown when young, becoming domed. The

Araucaria branches in tiers, which are symmetrically

whorled; creating a unique, unusual effect of the thick,

'reptilian' branches.

Araucaria is from latitude about as far south of the

equator as Philadelphia is north, and from an altitude which has endowed it with some

semblance of winter hardiness. USDA H. Zone 7 to 8

3) Lacebark Pine,Pinus bungeanaType: Large evergreen trees

Two large specimens of this slow growing multi-trunked

pine tree are located among the conifer collection in the

Arboretum at the Barnes Foundation. The exfoliating bark

ofPinus bungeana peels, somewhat like a sycamore, to

reveal an underlying patchwork of pale yellow, olive, light

purple, brown and silver bark in all seasons, eventually

becoming milky white at maturity. Its medium to dark

green needles in bundles of three are 4 long, and smallyellowish-brown cones are 2 long. USDA H. Zone 4 to 8.

III. Bartrams Garden54th Street & Lindbergh Blvd. | Philadelphia, PA 19143 telephone: 215-729-5281Grounds are free & open to the public all year round. Guided Tours Open April 1Guided tour cost: $10 adults/$8 seniors & students. Children 12 and under are free.For current events, classes, and information, visit: www.GreaterPhiladelphiaGardens.org

Bartrams Garden Favorite Trees

Source: Todd Greenberg, Head GardenerJohn Bartram Association

1) Franklinia alatamaha, Ben Franklin Tree

Type: Deciduous flowering tree

The Franklin Tree (Franklinia alatamaha) is

typically a small to medium multi-stemmed tree in the tea family (Theaceae), and is


9/34



Bartrams Garden Favorite Tree (continued)

related to Camellias. In July, fragrant watch swell almost daily. They continue to bloom

well into white flowers with egg-yellow centers begin bursting open from large buds that

you can see in the fall with peak bloom time in late July-early August. The foliage turns

shades of crimson-red to orange and yellow in the fall, and in the winter the trees striped

bark and large seed pods are recognizable in the Bartram landscape, both directly beside

and behind the historic house.

If sited correctly Franklinia can be a standout

ornamental specimen (with a unique story to tell). The

tree prefers light shade (especially younger trees) to full

sun in a protected environment. The soil pH is critical to

keep in mind for site preparations and ongoing care; the

ideal pH is between 5-6 (so testing the soil before hand

and periodically after establishment is key), mulching

with pine needles is a great way to help keep the pH stable and a nice alternate aesthetic

to wood mulch. Soil should be well drained, but still have some organic matter for

moisture holding capacity.

This "very curious shrub"was first discovered by John and William Bartram in 1765

along the Altamaha River in Georgia. William Bartram returned with seeds from Georgia

in 1777 and named the plant after his fathers close friend, Benjamin Franklin, and the

river from whence it came. Franklinia has not been seen in the wild since the early 19th

century and it is said that all Franklinias in cultivation today are directly descended from

those cultivated by the Bartrams.

IV. Bowmans Hill Wildflower Preserve1635 River Road, New Hope, PA telephone: 215.862.2924Admission: Charged FeeFor special events, programs, and information visit:www.GreaterPhiladelphiaGardens.org

Bowmans Hill Wildflower Preserve Favorite Trees(Photos by Amy Hoffmann)Sources: Amy Hoffman, education coordinator andPaul Teese, curator

1) Cucumber Magnolia (Magnolia acuminata)

Type: Flower

Situated near a stone bridge over babbling Pidcock


10/34



Bowmans Hill Wildflower Preserves Favorite Trees (continued)

Creek, a mature specimen here is a favorite at BHWP for its abundant display of largeyellow flowers each spring. Visitors linger to admire both the tree itself and the setting in

which it is so beautifully displayed.

2) Shagbark Hickory (Carya ovata)

Type: Native, Deciduous

Visitors to BHWP can wander trails through extensive deciduous

forest. Shagbark hickory, with its nut, compound leaf and unique

bark, is one of its most identifiable components in any season. An

excellent specimen can be found along Presidents Drive near theentrance to the Marsh Marigold Trail.

V. Brandywine ConservancyU.S. Route. 1, Chadds Ford, PA telephone: 610.388.2700 Open all year.

For current information, events, and programs visit:www.GreaterPhiladelphiaGardens.org

Brandywine Conservancys Favorite Trees

Source: Mark R Gormel, Horticultural Coordinator, Brandywine Conservancy

1) River Birch (Betula nigra)

Type: Native, Deciduous shade tree, member of the Eastern Deciduous Forest

A medium sized tree native to most of the eastern half

of the US, the rive birch is found in the wild along

streams, floodplains and other low, wet areas, but it is

also tolerant of hot, dry conditions and compacted

soils. Extremely fast growing in either single or

multiple trunked forms it reaches maturity in 50-75

years, rarely reaching 125.

River birch ripens seeds earlier than most birches (June, July, early August) providing

early season meals for seed-eating songbirds, with leaves that are a food source for the

Eastern Tiger Swallowtail and Mourning Cloak butterflies. Unlike other birch species,

the river birch is resistant to bronze birch borer and perhaps the best native birch for our

region.


11/34



Brandywine Conservancys Favorite Trees (River Birch) continued

On younger trunks the bark is light pink to cinnamon or salmon-colored and curls up in

large flakes (exfoliates). A close to mature specimen welcomes visitors at the main

entrance to the Brandywine River Museum; at the rear of the museums Belgian-block-

paved courtyard a much more youthful tree can be seen.

2) Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)

Type: Native, Small Flowering Tree, Small Understory Tree

The eastern redbud is a small understory tree with a vase shape

that is often as wide, or wider, than it is tall with leaves that are

distinctly heart-shaped. One of the vivid announcements thatspring has arrived are the tight clusters of dark, reddish purple

flower buds which arise directly on the stems of leafless older

branches and trunks and quickly unfold to a bright rosy pink.

As this is a tree in the pea family, the bright flowers will be

immediately familiar to anyone who has ever grown garden

peas.

On the river side of the museum, near millstone benches and two bronze sculptures,

a large specimen typically blooms heavily above a drift of sky-blue Virginia bluebells

and the brilliant green of newly uncoiling Ostrich fern frond

3) American Holly (Ilex opaca)

Type: Native, Evergreen

The American Holly is a large evergreen tree with pyramidal form

which is native to the Middle Atlantic and Southeastern US. For

centuries this species has been used in furniture, musical

instruments and seasonal decorations. Offers great

year-round protection for wildlife as well as essential late season

meals (berries) which are routinely devoured in late winter by the

hordes of American robins who make Chadds Ford, PA, their

winter home. A very large Yellow Berried American holly,Ilex

opaca var. xanthocarpa, can be experienced across from the

Brandywine River Museum and adjacent the Membership Offices building.


12/34



VI. Cabrini College and ArboretumEagle & King of Prussia Roads, Radnor, PA telephone: 610.902.8100

Open daily, dawn to dusk. For current programs visit:www.GreaterPhiladelphiaGardens.org

Cabrini College and Arboretums Favorite Trees

Source: Harold Holden, Director of Facilities, Cabrini College

1) Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum Atropurpureum) Type: Deciduous

This picturesque living sculpture near the Mansion of

Cabrini College adds a year-round accent to the

campus landscape. The old knurled trunk dissipates

into layered branches that provide support for a

wispy canopy, suggesting maturity with grace. The

branch architecture is further enhanced after a

winters snow, soon to be followed by one of the

most delicate displays of early unfurling leaves.

2) White and Chestnut Oak(Quercus alba and

Q.prinus) Type: Native, Deciduous

All North American native species, these magnificentoaks on the Cabrini College campus were planted

when Woodcrest Estate was established by James Paul

in 1901. The core of campus is a variety of spectacular

old oaks (black oak, scarlet oak, pin oak, willow oak

and many more), whose massive trunks and stout limbs

create a majestic cathedral of trees.

3) Bur Oak(Quercus macrocarpa)Type: Native, Deciduous

A variety of trees have been planted throughout campus overthe past ten years to carry on the original intent of the

property for future generations, and they all quickly become

favorites.

The bur oak, here being planted by Cabrini College President

Dr. MarieAngelella George, will develop into what is


13/34



described as the most massive of the oaks known for its sixty foot wide-spreading limbs.

The young branches are wrapped with corky ridges providing winter interest, and its

acorns are half covered by a fringed cap.

VII. Chanticleer786 Church Road, Wayne, PA telephone: 610.687.41632011 Season Opens Wednesday, March 30 through Sunday, October 30For current events, classes, and information visit:www.GreaterPhiladelphiaGardens.org

Chanticleers Favorite Trees

Source: Lisa Roper, horticulturist, Chanticleer

1) Red Maple (Acer rubrum)

(image by Lisa Roper)

Type: Native, Deciduous shade tree

This native, medium to large tree has a

rounded or oval shape. Its foliage is 3-5

lobed, green on the upper leaf and gray-green below. The red maple is noted for its

brilliant fall color in shades of yellow, orange and red. In late winter it has small but

showy red flowers which evolve into clusters of reddish samaras. The bark is scaly gray-

brown.

Standing at the Chanticleer terrace, looking down the sweeping hill, the Acer rubrumstands alone with the serpentine behind it. In October it turns brilliant hues of yellow,

orange and red creating an elegant focal point.

2) Black Walnut (Juglans nigra) (image by Rob Cardillo)


The Black Walnut tree is a native, large tree with a

coarse texture and an oval shape. Its leaves are

pinnately compound, 1-2 feet long, and emit a strong

odor when crushed.

In autumn, the foliage is yellow and the leaves drop

before most other trees. Black Walnut tree flowers are

catkins and not very ornamental. The fruit is the black walnut, an edible nut encased in a

green covering. The bark has striking deep and narrow furrows.


14/34



Chanticleers Favorite Trees (continued)

Some of the oldest trees at Chanticleer, the row of Juglans nigra, line the path from the

tennis court down to the cut flower garden. With their craggy architecture and furrowed

bark, the trees are stately sentinels.

3) Katsura Tree (Cercidiphyllum japonicum ) (image by Lisa Roper)

Type: Deciduous shade tree

The Katsura is a large, wide spreading or

pyramidal tree native to Japan. Its leaves are

heart shaped and emerge purple, changing to

bluish green. In autumn they turn a yellow to

apricot color and give off a fragrance that hasbeen described as cotton candy. The

flowers, which open before the leaves, are

small and green and not showy. The tree is

dioecious, meaning that it bears male and female flowers on separate plants. Both male

and female trees have to be near each other to produce fruit. The female produces small

green pods, which release winged seeds. The bark is brown and wonderfully shaggy on

old trunks.

Two Cercidiphyllum, a male and a female, grow side by side, next to the cutting garden

at Chanticleer. In between the curving root flares minor bulbs such as cyclamen, andanemone bloom. But in the fall, when the entire tree turns an apricot yellow and the air is

scented with caramelized sugar it comes into its glory.

4) River's purple beech (Fagus sylvatica Riversii)(image courtesy ofRob Cardillo)


Often known as the copper beech, the foliage emerges a reddish color in spring,

becoming darker purple, fading to purplegreen

in summer and finally turning copper in autumn. It

is a low-branched tree with a smooth, gray barkthat looks lovely in the winter landscape. Flowers

in April and are insignificant. The fruit is a

triangular nut with a spiny covering.

When the leaves emerge in spring a reddish


15/34



copper color, they combine with the golden foliage ofSpiraea bumaldaGold Flame and

the dwarf lilac, Syringa meyeriPalibin. Later, when the tree turns a dark purple-black, it

provides a dramatic backdrop for the drifts ofPapaver rhoeas, the Flanders poppy.

VIII. Hagley Museum and Library298 Buck Road East, Wilmington, DE 19807 Phone: (302) 658-2400 weekdays

Open all year. For more information and events:

http://www.GreaterPhiladelphiaGardens.org/gardens/hagley

Hagley Museum and Librarys Favorite Trees

Source: Hagley Museum & Library

1) Osage Orange Osage orange, Maclura pamiferType: Deciduous shade tree,

Native to the Ozarks, not to DE & PA

HagleyMuseum and Librarys Osage Orange tree has been

officially named co-champion for the largest Osage Orange

tree in the nation this year by The National Register of Big

Trees. It is seventy-two feet in height, twenty-six-and-a-half

feet in circumference, and eighty-five feet in spread.

Hagleys Osage Orange, which is a Delaware State Champion tree, sits proudly in front

of Eleutherian Mills, the du Pont ancestral home. It joins 733 of the largest tree species in

the United States on the National Register of Big Trees, only two of which are from

Delaware.

Hagleys 350-year old Osage Orange was thriving long before E. I. du Pont built his

home and mills along the Brandywine in 1802. Visitors are often mesmerized by low,

wide, irregular spreading branches and rough, orange-brown bark of this magnificent

tree. The tree can be seen during a tour of Eleutherian Mills.

According to Hagley gardens and grounds supervisor,Richard Pratt, this tree stands like

a large bronze sculpture at the end of the old allee. It is truly a spectacular sight.

Hagleys 235 acres contains ninety-four species and varieties of trees, fifty of these are

native to Delaware. Forty-six of Hagleys trees are on the State of Delaware Forest

Services big tree nomination list and eighteen are Delaware State Champions. Visitors

may pick up a copy of the self-guided Great Tree brochure in the Hagley Visitor Center.
http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardens/hagleyhttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardens/hagleyhttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardens/hagleyhttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/


16/34



What is a Champion Tree?

American Forestshas been recognizing national champion trees as symbols for all thegreat work trees do for the environment. The organization maintains a searchable national

register of our nations biggest trees, referred to as national champions.

What is a Delaware State Champion Tree?

The Delaware Department of Agriculture Forest Service published its first edition ofBig

Trees in Delaware in 1995. According to the DDA Forest Service, three measurements

are needed to determine a champion: 1.) the circumference, 2.) the height, and 3.) the

average crown spread.. The trees listed have been growing for 150 years or more. A co-

champion is named if it is within 5 points of the champion. State champions o not have tobe native trees.

More Hagley Museum and Library Favorite Trees

2) du Pont Buckeye, (Aesculus x dupontii)

Type: Nut, Deciduous shade tree

This tree stands in the front lawn of the first du Pont family

home in America. Having a height of 79 feet, and a

circumference of 10.45 feet, this non-native 180 year oldtree is a Delaware State Champion.

This one of a kind hybrid is a cross betweenAesculus

glabra andAesculus pavia by E.I. du Pont and his wife

Sophie, mid 1800. Notable by its gray, warty, gnarly trunk

and rounded crown, the du Pont Buckeyes branches weep

towards the ground and then turn up wards at the ends. The

large, bright, orange-red color flower blooms in mid May

and is 4-7 long and 2 to 3 wide.

du Pont Buckeyes leaves are dark green in summer and yellow to orangered in fall.

The fruit is a nut about 2 in diameter with a prickly shell.

3) Persian Parrotia, (Parrotia persica) Type: Deciduous, Ornamental tree

Native to Japan, the Persian Parrotia tree is one of two planted side by side in the upper
http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.americanforests.org/resources/bigtreeshttp://www.americanforests.org/resources/bigtreeshttp://www.americanforests.org/resources/bigtreeshttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/


17/34



Hagley Museum and Librarys Favorite Trees (continued)

part of the Crowninsheild garden, and can be viewed from the du Pont family home patio.

It is about 90 years old, and has a height of 50 feet and a circumference of 5 feet.

The Persian Parrotias large muti-stem trunk has an oval canopy with upright spreading

branches. The exfoliating bark of gray, green, white, and brown yields delightful winter

interest. The Persian Parrotia flowers late March early April, before leaves appear, and

changing slightly in color from crimsom-moroon to yellow. Most generally the flower is

unnoticed. The fruit is a seed about 3/8 long bright brown in color.

IX. Haverford College Arboretum370 Lancaster Avenue, Haverford, PA 19041 Phone: 610-896-1101

Open daily, dawn to dusk; Free

For more info & events:http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardens/haverford

Haverfords Favorite Trees

Source: Martha Van Artsdalen , Plant Curator, Haverford College Arboretum

1) American elm (Ulmus americana)


The American elm, once planted down Main Street in

many a small town, is a majestic tree growing up to 80

feet tall in a vase-shaped form with arching branches.

The dark green leaves turn a golden yellow in fall. The

arrival of Dutch elm disease in the middle of the last century wiped out many an

American elm, but a few specimens remain in the landscape.

Haverford College Arboretum features several, including one historic tree with a lineage

dating to William Penn, founder of the colony of Pennsylvania. In 1682, Penn made a

pact of unity with the Lenape tribe of Native Americans under an elm tree in what istoday Philadelphia. A cutting from this tree was presented to the college in 1840, and

over the years other cuttings were taken.

One, planted in 1915, dominates the top of the lawn above the Duck Pond in the

Arboretum, providing a cathedral-like canopy of shade in summer for visitors.
http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardens/haverfordhttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardens/haverfordhttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardens/haverfordhttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardens/haverfordhttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/


18/34



Haverford College Arboretums Favorite Trees

2) Bur oak (Quercus macrocarpa)Type: Native, Deciduous shade tree

The Bur oak is a massive tree with rough-textured brown bark, fringed-capped acorns and

large-lobed leaves. At maturity, its stout trunk will reach up to 80 feet tall and its heavy

branches will span an equal width.

When Haverford College hired William Carvill in 1834 to lay out a landscape for the new

college, the Englishman included two Bur oaks in his design. (Carvills conversion of

farmland to campus makes Haverford the oldest planned college landscape in the

country.)

Both Bur oaks still stand on opposite sides of Founders Green: one in front of Barclay

Hall and the other by Magill Library. When the library was expanded in 1967, the

entrance ramp was raised and built around the one tree to protect its roots and insure a

long life for future generations of students to admire.

3) Kentucky coffeetree (Gymnocladus dioica)


The Kentucky coffeetree is a tough, native tree whose large,

round seeds borne in 6 to 10-inch long brown pods are said tohave been ground by colonists and used as a substitute for coffee,

hence its common name. Today we admire this tall, craggy tree

for its picturesque silhouette in the winter landscape and the

delicate, soft green leaflets that form dangling foliage and give

filtered shade in summer. Male and female flowers form on

separate trees.

This tree will grow to about 75 feet high and about half as wide.

A mature example at Haverford College Arboretum can easily be admired on Founders

Green at the entrance to Sharpless Hall.

X. Henry Schmieder Arboretum of Delaware Valley College700E. Butler Ave., Doylestown, PA 18901 telephone: 215-489-2283

Admission: Open all year

For current events, classes, and information visit:www.GreaterPhiladelphiaGardens.org


19/34



Henry Schmieder Arboretums Favorite Trees

Source: Mary Boyle, Horticulturist, Henry Schmieder Arboretum, Delaware Valley College

1) Fernleaf Beech (FagussylvaticaAspleniifolia)

(image courtesy of Brad Schwartzmier)


This majestic low-branched tree features monoecious

yellowish-green flowers in April-May with male flowers

in drooping, long-stemmed, globular clusters and female

flowers in short spikes. This cutleaf cultivar

displays feathery, fern-like medium to dark green leaves that are deeply dissected into

slender lobes.

Trees at maturity may reach 40-60 tall and the same in

width. Golden-yellow foliage adorns the tree in fall

along with beechnuts that were produced earlier in the

spring by female flowers.

This wonderful specimen is located on the south side of

Work Hall which leads to a corridor of otherFagus

specimens and cultivar.

2) Tanyosho Pine (Pinus densiflora Umbraculifera)

Type:Needled evergreen tree

Typically slow-growing, this dwarf cultivar is grown as either a

small tree or shrub. Two of its most notable features are the

umbrella-shaped crown and flaking, copper-colored bark. Small

seed cones adorn the fresh green needles later in the year. The

multi-stemmed trunk features a broad-rounded canopy and uprightspreading branches. Most specimens reach 15 feet in height after

30 years. Our robust specimen is >20 in height and it is located at

the southwestern corner of the Krauskopf Memorial Library.


20/34



Henry Schmieder Arboretums Favorite Trees (continued)

3)

Chinese Dogwood (Cornus kousa var. chinensis)Type: Deciduous, Ornamental tree

Chinese Dogwood is a medium-size, deciduous flowering tree which measures anywhere

from 15-30 tall with an equal spread at maturity. This tree displays multiple seasons of

interest with its low-branching, vase-shaped habit; bright white flowers, (petal-like

bracts which surround the center cluster of yellowish-green true flowers); mottled,

exfoliating bark; raspberry-colored, edible fruit; and reddish-plum colored foliage in the

fall.

Three lovely specimens of Chinese Dogwood, underplanted with multi-colored

Hyacinthoides hispanica (Spanish Bluebells), are located front of Segal Hall.

4) Blue Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica (Glauca Group))

Type:Needled evergreen tree

Dont let the size and slender shape of this conifer in

nurseries fool you. This native of the Atlas Mountains in

northern Africa (Morocco and Algeria) can reach 40-60+

with age. This true cedar is generally loosely-pyramidal

and gangly in youth; however it becomes more flat-topped

with long spreading branches with age. Tufted clusters of1 long needles are gray-blue in color. Most interesting are the upright seed cones that

resemble small bee hives. This majestic giant is located in the courtyard between Cooke

and Ulman Halls.

XI. Jenkins Arboretum & Garden631 Berwyn Baptist Rd., Devon, PA 19333 Phone: (610) 647-8870Admission: Open all yearFor events see: http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org

Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens Favorite TreesSource: Steve Wright, Hamilton Fellow and Horticulturist

1) Sourwood (Oxydendrum arboreum )

Type: Deciduous, Ornamental


21/34



Jenkins Aboretum & Gardens Favorite Trees (continued)

A relative of rhododendrons and azaleas, the sourwood is a lovely understory tree native

to the eastern US. It is highly ornamental with three seasons of interest. Panicles of lily

of the valley-like blossoms droop from the branches in mid to late summer and last

through fall. The subsequent seedpods persist on the branches through winter.

In fall, the large, glossy green leaves change to exhibit spectacular shades of red that

become more intense with increased sun exposure. The irregular, crooked branching

habit gives an interesting architecture in winter.

There are several specimens at Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens. The most noteworthy

specimen resides in the Green Ribbon Garden just outside the John J. WillamanEducation Center. It exemplifies the species with interesting form and, receiving plenty

of sun, displays the most intense fall color of all our sourwoods.

2) Paw Paw (Asimina triloba)Type: Native, Deciduous, Ornamental, Fruit tree

Pawpaw is a small native understory tree that naturally

suckers to form a colony or can be treated as a single

stemmed specimen. In spring, just as new leaves are

beginning to emerge, the stems are adorned with lovelydangling maroon and yellow flowers. The subsequent

fruits, however, are its most noteworthy characteristic.

These large, exotic, custardy fruits have a flavor likened

to a blend of over-ripe banana and passion fruit. The

pawpaw also stands out in the fall when its droopy, magnolia-like leaves turn to a golden

yellow.

At Jenkins Arboretum & Garden, there are two outstanding colonies of large, fruit-

bearing, paw paws. The largest grows near the pond and has reached nearly 40 feet. This

specimen is most spectacular in the fall, when its bright yellow leaves stand out againstthe dark green pine boughs.


22/34



XII. Longwood Gardens1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348

Open all year. For admission, events and information, visitwww.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org

Longwood Gardens Favorite Trees

1) Yellow Cucumber Magnolia( Magnolia acuminata var. subcordata 'Peirce's Park')

Type: Nativethat

In 1970, the Yellow Cucumber Magnolia (Magnolia acuminata var. subcordata) next to

the Pierce-du Pont House was the first tree from Longwood

to be nominated for state champion. This magnificent tree

was deemed the largest of its kind in PA, and then it went

on to be honored as the national championthe largest of

its kind in the United States.

The yellow-flowered magnolia, known at that time as

Magnolia cordata was planted on the Peirce farm (what

later became Longwood Gardens) by Joshua and Samuel

Peirce.

This magnolia was discovered in 1788 by French explorer

Andr Michaux in South Carolina. Michaux was the author

of one of the first floras of North America and was one of the first trained botanists to

explore and collect plant specimens in the Southern Appalachian Mountain region. The

Peirce brothers most likely procured this magnolia from Michaux, with the help of either

John Bartram or William Hamilton, owners of two prominent Philadelphia gardens.

The tree still stands at Longwood Gardens, south of the Peirce du Pont house, and is a

national champion at about100 tall. This clone was given a cultivar status because of its

historical significance. This plant was distributed to nurseries in 1998 and is

commercially available.

In 2009, a total of 164 champion trees were identified by the Pennsylvania Forestry

Association and by Longwood Gardens to be the most champion trees in any one

location in Pennsylvania! The second portion of the effort is now underway in the

perimeter areas of Longwood.
http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://longwoodgardens.files.wordpress.com/2010/04/ycm.jpghttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/


23/34



Longwood Gardens Favorite Trees (continued)

2) Ilex opacaLongwoodGardens

Pierre S. du Pont, Longwoods founder, collected plants that added distinctive touches to

the garden. Mr. du Ponts brother-in-law, F. L. Belin, purchased several yellow-berriedAmerican hollies (Ilex opaca) from an unknown man. Upon seeing these plants in Mr.Belins garden, Mr. du Pont liked them so much and requested some be sent to him.

Subsequently, one of the larger hollies was transplanted to Longwood.

This plant is now located on the east side of the Open Air Theater. 'Longwood Gardens'can also be found in the Idea Garden and near the Terrace Restaurant. Mr. du Pont madecuttings available to nurseries and this form ofIlex opacanamed Longwood Gardenshas been available in the nursery trade since the 1950s.

Hollies have been an important part of Longwood Gardens since the time of founderPierre S. du Pont. From the beginning, he collected interesting specimens. This traditionhas been continued by Longwoods staff through seed exchanges with neighboringgardens and plant exploration around the world. Longwood currently has 318 active hollyaccessions in the garden. Approximately 100 of these are located in the ExperimentalShrub Trials to determine their display value.

What is a Pennsylvania Champion Tree?

American Forestshas been recognizing national champion trees as symbols for all thegreat work trees do for the environment. The organization maintains a searchable national

register of the largest known species of every native and naturalized tree in the U.S. The

largest tree of its species in the country is the National Champion.

According to AMERICAN FORESTS there's more to a champion than just its size

they are symbols of all the good work trees do for the quality of the environment and our

quality of life.

In Pennsylvania,thePennsylvania Forestry Associationhas located and inventoried the

largest specimen of each species that grows in Pennsylvania. To be a champion, a tree

must be larger than all of the other reported trees of the same species.

To calculate which is the largest, three measurements are taken from the tree: the height,

the girth (circumference) at 4.5 above the ground, and the largest spread. Using a points

formula that assigns one point for every foot of height, one point for every inch of girth,

and a quarter point for every foot of spread, the Association assigns a score. The score

can be used to compare trees of the same species to see which is the largest.
http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.americanforests.org/resources/bigtreeshttp://www.americanforests.org/resources/bigtreeshttp://pfa.cas.psu.edu/http://pfa.cas.psu.edu/http://pfa.cas.psu.edu/http://pfa.cas.psu.edu/http://www.americanforests.org/resources/bigtreeshttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/


24/34



XIII. Morris Arboretumof the University of Pennsylvania

100 E. Northwestern Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19118 telephone: (215) 247-5777Open Daily Admission Times: 10am-4pmFor more information and special events, seehttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardens

Morris Arboretums Favorite Trees

1) Katsura tree (Cercidiphyllum japonicum)

Photo by Paul Meyer, Morris Arboretum

Type: Deciduous, Shade tree

Planted in the early 1900s as part of a Japanese

garden, this native of Japan and China has become the

signature tree of the Arboretum. The huge spreading

canopy and wide exposed roots have captivated staff

and visitors alike. The leaves provide a three season

show as they emerge a beautiful light pink in the spring before turning pale green. In

summer, the leaves are blue-green, and then with the fall turn yellow-apricot. As the

leaves fall and decompose they give off an odor reminiscent of caramel or cotton candy.

This tree, one of the largest Katsura trees in North America, is located below the Alice

and J. Liddon Pennock Garden, just past the Garden Railway Display.

2) Dawn-redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides)

Type: Deciduous, Ornamental

Many Arboretum visitors make a special pilgrimage to visit the

grove of dawn redwood trees along the East Brook. This grove

includes some of the oldest and largest dawn redwoods in the

country. Thought by Western botanists to be extinct, the dawn

redwood was rediscovered in the 1940s by a Chinese forester

surveying a remote area of central China. The discovery of this

living fossil created a sensationin botanical circle, and the

Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University sponsored a seed

collecting expedition to the area. Some of the Arboretums

trees were grown from seed from that first collection.

Beautiful in all seasons, the dawn redwood is especially striking in autumn when the

leaves of this deciduous conifer turn a deep orange-brown.
http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardenshttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardenshttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardenshttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardenshttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/


25/34



Morris Arboretums Favorite Trees (continued)

3) Bender Oak (Quercus benderi)

Type: Native, Deciduous, Shade

Although the exact age of the Morris Arboretums

bender oak is unknown, it is believed to already

have been growing at the top of the hill when the

John and Lydia Morris purchased the property in

1887.

This magnificent specimen is a natural hybrid

between the native scarlet and red oaks and

provides a dramatic gateway to the garden. With lustrous green leaves in summer, russet

red color in fall and an imposing branch structure in winter, the bender oak is not only the

anchor at the top of the hill, but one of the Arboretums greatest and most beloved

specimens.

4) Blue Atlas Cedar (Cedrus atlantica 'Glauca')

Type: Evergreen

As the common name indicates, this tree is native to the

Atlas Mountains of North Africa and is one of our few

representatives from that continent at the Arboretum.

The large female cones resemble beehives or carved ivory,

and stand proudly on their stems. Its blue needle color is

attractive throughout the year and makes an especially good

contrasting bright fall colors and providing beauty in the

winter. This specimen tree is located past the entrance to theRose Garden directly above the Garden Railway Display.


26/34



XIV. Pennsylvania Horticultural Society100 N. 20th Street -5th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19103phone: 215-988-8800

For more information and special events, seehttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardens

Pennsylvania Horticultural Societys (PHS) Favorite Trees

Source: Pennsylvania Horticultural SocietysPhiladelphia Green Gold Medal Plants

1) American Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)


This 2011 PHS Gold Medal Plant Award winner is a very

narrow low-maintenance cultivar of the underused

American Sweetgum tree. Unlike the species, Slender

Silhouette produces little fruit (those brown spiky orbs)

that, when dropped, land only in a small, easily cleaned-up

4 x 4 area. Its dark green glossy leaves turn yellow with a

tinge of red in the fall.

This is a great park and alle treeor use it almost

anywhere a narrow tree is desired. It prefers moist soil andspace for root development. Grows 50H x 4W. Hardy in zones 5 to 9.

Gold Medal Plants are carefully chosen trees, shrubs, and woody vines of outstanding

merit.

2) One Million more

Pennsylvania Horticultural Societys (PHS)

Plant One Millionis an extraordinary campaign to

encourage the planting of one million trees in 13counties in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware.

This effort is the nations first multi-state tree-

planting campaign.
http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardenshttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardenshttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardenshttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardenshttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/


27/34



XV. Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA 19081 phone (610) 3288025For tree and other events see: http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardens.asp

Scott Arboretums Favorite Trees

Source:Julie Jenney, Scott Arboretum

1) Northern catalpa (Catalpa speciosa)

Type: Deciduous

Northern catalpainhabits the rich valley soils of the Mississippi River basin and is

tough as nails. At one time it was extensively planted for use as fence posts and

consequently has widely naturalized throughout parts of the Midwest and Southeast. The

specific epithet (speciosa) means showy or splendid, referring to its large, numerous, and

showy flowers. It is a deciduous tree with a massive trunk, supporting uneven oval

crowns of several large, curving and ascending limbs. Mature trees become rustic,

picturesque, and striking in winter with their rugged, bold outline. With a medium to fast

growth rate (3 to 4 feet per year), Catalpa speciosa can reach 60 to 80 ft. high with a

spread of 40 to 60 ft.

The large heart-shaped foliage is a medium green, while the fall color is a bland

yellowish green at best. The flowers, while messy, are spectacular. White with orange

stripes and purple spots inside, the flowers are bell-shaped with spreading lobes andfrilled margins. Individual flowers are 2 inches long and wide and occur in upright

terminal panicles that can be 4 to 8 inches long.

Blooming in May to June they have a light fragrance and when viewed up close rival a

stunning orchid. The fruits are long, bean-like capsules that begin green and age to

brown. They can reach as long as 20 inches and often remain attached to the tree (which

can be very picturesque) throughout winter. Hardy USDA zones 4 to 8

American yellowwood (Cladrastis kentukea)

Type: Deciduous

A fantastic tree is how Andrew Bunting, Scotts

curator describes the American yellowwood.

Yellowwoods are medium-sized, deciduous, low-

branching trees with open, arching, broad-rounded
http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardens.asphttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardens.asphttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardens.asphttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/


28/34



Scott Arboretums Favorite Trees (continued)

crowns. Branches are upright, spreading, and fairly delicate. The main trunk is often

short. With a moderate growth rate, this tree will eventually reach 30-50 ft. with a spread

of 40-55 ft.

The beautiful beech-like bark is smooth and silvery-gray; it is the heartwood that is

yellow. The foliage is bright green and glabrous with a soft yellow to golden fall color.

The flowers are white, fragrant, pea-like blooms borne on pendulous, terminal panicles in

May to early June. In full flower the tree is fully covered in white, as many were this

spring in the Swarthmore area. The flowering occurs most abundantly in alternate years

or every third year. The seed pods are brown and pea-like, and up to 4 inches long.

Yellowwoods are excellent trees for their foliage and flowers and deserve a prominent

position in the landscape. A good choice for smaller properties, it is perfect for sitting

under for dappled shade or, since the roots go deep, it can tolerate plants growing at its

base. Cladrastis kentukea received the Gold Medal award from the Pennsylvania

Horticultural Society in 1994. Hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.

2) Willow Oak (Quercus phellos)


The willow oak, a comparatively smaller oak, is one of the best oaks for residences with

large lawns and is effective along ponds or water gardens. Inhabiting bottomlands along

streams, floodplains and adjacent slopes, the willow oak is rarely found on upland sites.

It is a deciduous, medium to large, upright tree, pyramidal in youth, developing a dense,

oblong to rounded crown with age, its lower branches drooping toward the ground. This

is a fast growing tree reaching 40 to 75 feet at maturity with a spread of 25 to 50 feet.

The bark is grayish brown with shallow ridges and furrows. The fine foliage of the

willow oak is one of its best ornamental features. The foliage is lance-shaped with wavy

margins and remains dark green into the fall. When it does turn color around November it

is a showy, long lasting yellow to bronzy-red.


29/34



XVI. Shofuso Japanese House and Garden

Horticultural and Lansdowne Drives, Philadelphia, PA 19131 Phone: 215-878-5097For admission, programs and special events, visit:http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org

Shofuso Japanese House and Gardens Favorite Tree

Source: Asher Browne, Horticulturalist

1)Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris)Type: Coniferous Ornamental Tree

The Scots pine is one of the few plants inShofuso's garden native to Europe. This pine

is intended to resemble the Japanese RedPine,Pinus densiflora, which is very

vulnerable to disease. The Scots pineis tolerant of a wide variety of environmentalconditions and is popular as a Christmas tree.As a Scots pine matures, its bark turns an orange red color and flakes off the trunk.

Our Scots pine was moved to the island in the early 1980s and has been carefully prunedto the Japanese standards ofUeki no Te Ire, which translates literally to "the care ofshrubs or ornamental landscape trees." Its shape evokes a human figure viewing his ownreflection in the water.

In Japan, the red pine that this resembles is known as Akamatsu (literally "red

pine") and Mematsu. It is widely cultivated in Japan both for timber production and as anornamental tree, and plays an important part in the classic Japanese garden.

XVII. Ambler Arboretum at Temple University580 Meetinghouse Road, Ambler, PA 19002 Phone: 267.468.8000

Ambler Arboretum at Temple Universitys Favorite TreesSource: Eva Monheim, Lecturer in Horticulture, Temple University - Ambler Campus

1) Higan Cherry (Prunus subhirtella 'Autumnalis')type: Deciduous

Prunus subhirtella 'Autumnalis' (Higan Cherry) is located between Dixon Hall and HildaJustice and behind the Viola Anders Herb Garden on the Temple AmblerCampus . This tree is always an early spring bloomer and late season bloomer. Somewinters, when it is mild, the tree will burst into bloom on a drab, gray winter day. The


30/34



Ambler Arboretum at Temple Universitys Favorite Trees (continued)

tree is old and craggy with a broad, low profile and the branches are facing downwardwith a slight drooping character. The soft mauve, pink flowers are a treat to see fullyextended as they reveal a traditional small rose bloom. This is certainly a tree withcharacter and four season interest. In the fall the leaves turn to yellow, blush peach androsy colors.

2) Himalayan pine; Butan pine (Pinus wallichiana)Type: Evergreen

You will findPinus wallichiana in the Wetland Garden behind the Cottage Complex andoff the corner of Widner Buildings on the Ambler Campus.Pinus wallichiana has long drooping needles in bundles of five

needles. The long needles are almost twice the length of ournativePinus strobus (Eastern White Pine) and in the late winterearly spring, it drops its very large cones (10-12") inlength. The tree creates a wonderful microclimate that can befelt when one stands underneath the amazing branches.

We also have a group of threePinus wallichiana behind WestHall near the bus stop. These three look dramatically differentwhen planted in a group. In a group they are much leaner inform are not nearly as dramatic as the solitary form behind theWetland Garden pergola.

3) The Kentucky Coffeetree (Gymnocladus dioicus)Type: Native, Deciduous

Gymnocladus dioicus can be found to the right of BrightHall when approaching the building from the front. Thetrees sit along the drive that goes through campus.

These trees hold theirrachi during the winter,

which makes this arecognizable trait forwinter ID. The femaletree holds the leatherypods throughout thewinter making this a keyID feature as well.


31/34



During the summer months the bi-pinnately compound leaves are tropical in appearanceand are a wonderful ID feature. These are certainly a good duo for the viewer.

XVIII. Tyler Arboretum 515 Painter Road, Media, Pa. 19063 Telephone: 610-566-9134Admission Times: March 7-May 15, 2011: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm; Sat & Sun 9am-6pm

Tyler Arboretums Favorite Trees

Source: Mike Karkowski, Director of Horticulture, Tyler Arboretum

1) State Champion: Giant Sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum)

Points: 259Circumference: 155 inches.; Spread 36 ft.; Height :

95.4 ft.;

In the United States we seem to cherish the tall, the unique,

the unusual and so it is with trees. While sequoias are

known for their massive, straight trunks, the

uncharacteristic double trunk in the upper portion of

Tylers specimen is the result of a Christmas tree thief who

topped the sequoia in 1895, thirty-nine years after it was

planted. Native to the Sierra Nevada Mountains, sequoias

can grow up to 300 feet.

2) State Champion Cedar of Lebanon(Cedrus libani)

Points: 327: Circumference: 217; Spread: 93; Height: 87ft.

When young, cedar of Lebanon trees have an upright pyramidal

shape, but this magnificent Tyler specimen exhibits the typical

mature form with a flat top and broadly spreading branches.

Evidence remains of the large branch lost in a 2001 ice storm.

3) Historic Native Tree Tulip Poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera)


Points: 420: Circumference: 217; Spread: 86 ft; Height (ft.): 132.2;

A common native of our woodlands, tulip trees acquired their

name from their early spring flowers, which resemble tulips. They

are one of the fastest growing and tallest hardwoods, often

reaching heights well over 100 feet. Despite being struck by

lightning in 1990, this specimen continues to thrive. The trunk

diameter is just over 5 feet.


32/34



XIX. Winterthur5105 Kennett Pike, Winterthur, DE 19735 Phone: 800.448.3883; 302.888.4600

For events & more visit:http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardens/wintherthur

Winterthurs Favorite TreesSource: Karen Steenhoek, Assistant Curator of Garden Interpretation, Winterthur

1) Japanese maple(Acer palmatum)Type: Deciduous, Ornamental

The Japanese maple (Acer palmatum) at Magnolia Bendis draped elegantly against a short hillside where itscascading branches seem to flow downhill. It boasts

many seasons of interest, especially in early spring whenthe burgundy leaves emerge and in fall when they blazea reddish-orange.

H. F. du Pont had daffodils planted beneath this tree that artfully reflect the early springleaves; the rims of the daffodils have an auburn hue.

The Japanese maple comes in many forms and colorsas evidenced by the hundreds of cultivars andvarieties. There is surely one for every garden. Theytend to be small, only 15-25 feet high and just as wide.

Zones 5-8. These small trees are effective in the winteras many have contorted branches that contrast towinter white.

Fall color varies quite a bit, so if that is what you arelooking for, be sure to select your tree in the autumn. Once you select one, let it grow inthe same place for a long, long time to give it a chance to develop its unique character.Winterthurs tree is at least 80 years old.

2) Dawn Redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides)Type: Deciduous, Conifer

Unless you have a tiny garden, you have got to have one of these! The Dawn Redwoodcreates a summer oasis when its ferny leaves provide a soft, filtered shade. In lateautumn, it puts on a dramatic bronze show, perfect to call attention to your garden.
http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/http://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardens/wintherthurhttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardens/wintherthurhttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardens/wintherthurhttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/gardens/wintherthurhttp://www.greaterphiladelphiagardens.org/


33/34



Winterthurs Favorite Trees ( Dawn Redwood continued)

In the winter, the fishbone silhouette is easy tospot,providing interest even from afar. These treesare doing well in the United States having beenintroduced from China in 1941. Under idealconditions with a good bit of moisture, they willgrow 2-5 feet per year, so give it lots of room. Treesplanted in the late 1940s are now over 100 foot tall,like Winterthurs state champion near the SundialGarden . Dawn Redwoods grow 70-100 feet tall, 25feet wide. Zones 5 to 8.

3) Wadas Memory Magnolia (Magnolia Wadas Memory)Type: Deciduous, Ornamental

If spring puts you in a good mood, you will loveMagnolia Wadas Memory. Every year, right onqueue, it presides over the Sundial Garden, whiteblooms creating a giant white Easter egg to the delightof Winterthurs guests.

Get close enough to enjoy its slightly-citrus fragrance.After the flowers fade, its leaves emerge to create a

magnificent deep-green oval shape, a perfectbackdrop for later-blooming shrubs and trees. Thesetrees can easily reach 40 in height with a 25 span.

Grow Wadas Memory in full sun to get the bestshow in the early spring. Zones 4-9

Celebrate Earth Day and National Arbor Day in Americas Garden Capital!

Become a friend ofGreater Philadelphia GardensFacebook, and share your discoveries and

favorite trees every season and from all 30 Greater Philadelphia Gardens!

For current and updated special events, exhibits, and programs or to sign up for our seasonal and

weekly newsletter, please visit online at: www.GreaterPhiladelphiaGardens.org


34/34


2_visitor's 2011 guide to greater philadelphia gardens' favorite trees

Documents