The University of Michigan Matthaei Botanical Gardens (300 acres, 121 hectares) includes botanical gardens, natural areas with trails, and several research-quality habitats and is part of the organization Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum.[1] It was established in 1907.[3]
Established | 1907 (1907) |
---|---|
Location | 1800 N. Dixboro Rd, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48105[1] |
Coordinates | 42°16′53″N 83°43′24″W / 42.28131°N 83.72329°W / 42.28131; -83.72329 |
Type | Arboretum and Botanical Gardens |
Director | Anthony Kolenic [2] |
Curator | David Michener |
Owner | University of Michigan |
Website | Matthaei Botanical Gardens & Nichols Arboretum |
The botanical gardens includes outdoor display gardens, the Gaffield Children's Garden, a 10,000+ square-foot conservatory, and natural areas with walking trails.[1] The gardens are named after former Michigan regent Frederick C. Matthaei Sr. and his wife Mildred, who donated 200 acres (0.81 km2) of land.[4]
The gardens and hardy collections consist of several formal displays and outdoor plantings:
The 10,000+ square-foot conservatory was designed by architect Alden Dow, and completed in 1964. It is believed to be the largest university-operated display greenhouse in the United States.[citation needed] The conservatory contains three distinct areas:
The natural areas include mature woodlands, wetlands, several ponds, and a constructed tall-grass prairie, with four nature trails covering 3.2 miles.
42°18′4.2″N 83°39′50.5″W / 42.301167°N 83.664028°W / 42.301167; -83.664028