Scott Arboretum

The Scott Arboretum offers a breathtaking horticultural journey on Swarthmore College's campus.

This expansive arboretum, spanning 357 acres across the picturesque campus of Swarthmore College, is a living museum of over 4,000 kinds of ornamental plants. It serves as a vital resource for both horticultural enthusiasts and homeowners, showcasing plants that thrive in the Delaware Valley region and offering endless inspiration for garden design. Open to the public daily without charge, the arboretum beautifully integrates botany, horticulture, and landscaping, making it a beloved green oasis.

Visitors can explore a diverse array of themed gardens and notable plant collections, each with unique appeal. Highlights include the vibrant Dean Bond Rose Garden, boasting over 650 roses, and the impressive James R. Frorer Holly Collection, recognized as a National Holly Arboretum with more than 300 types of evergreen and deciduous hollies. The Tree Peony Collection showcases approximately 130 taxa, reaching peak bloom in mid-May, while the Magnolia Collection features around 140 taxa, including striking yellow and *Magnolia x soulangiana* hybrids. Don't miss the tranquil Crum Woods with its walking trails, the stately Scott Outdoor Amphitheater, or the seasonal allure of the Winter Garden and Hydrangea Collection.

Beyond its botanical beauty, the Scott Arboretum is a dynamic "Garden of Ideas," providing a blend of education, nature, and inspiration. It encourages wise stewardship of the environment and offers tangible ideas for home gardens through its thoughtfully curated displays. Whether you're seeking a peaceful stroll, horticultural insights, or a beautiful backdrop for photography, the arboretum provides a memorable and enriching experience throughout all four seasons. Don't forget to bring the Snappit nature identification app along to scan local species.