Asheville Botanical Garden

Asheville, North Carolina, United States

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The Asheville Botanical Gardens in North Carolina began in 1961 on a 10-acre site adjacent to the University of North Carolina at Asheville, originally eroded and abandoned timberland.

Cleanup and trail-building took place through the early 1960s, and planting began in 1964 following landscape plans by Doan Ogden, a respected landscape architect. Over 5,000 plants were transplanted from private lands and national forests to form a native plant preserve dedicated to the flora of the Southern Appalachian Mountains.

The garden now showcases more than 600 species of native trees, wildflowers, shrubs, ferns, grasses, and aquatic plants, serving as an important resource for botanical study, conservation, education, and public enjoyment. Volunteers and community members have played a vital role in its development and maintenance, while ongoing programs support native plant research and environmental awareness.

The garden is open year-round, providing a peaceful and educational natural space focused on preserving the region's botanical heritage.​