Evergreen Arboretum & Gardens

Head Gardener's Comment

A visit to Puget Sound is only complete with a tour of this public garden. The entrance is flanked by columns created by famed artists Little & Lewis and leads directly to the Master Gardener Perennial Border and Conifer Garden. The Native Plant Walk, fountain, sculptures and Rock Garden enhance the experience. Paths are mostly flat and easily navigable. The main path is made to standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

History

The space was approved for an arboretum in April 1963 and was to feature trees and woody shrubs that perform well in the Pacific Northwest. In 1980, it was decided to expand the original vision to include perennials and other herbaceous plants.

Plants of Note

The Japanese Tree Grove is one of the highlights of this garden and is a 'must see' in the fall. Conifer enthusiasts travel far and wide to see the collection at the Evergreen Arboretum and the local Master Gardeners have a 200' perennial demonstration border. Most plants and trees are signed.

Recently completed is the Rain Garden which demonstrates how to utilize water from gutters and ways to reduce runoff containing toxins into the local rivers, streams and ocean.