JC Raulston Arboretum

Raleigh, North Carolina, United States

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The JC Raulston Arboretum in Raleigh, North Carolina, is a 10-acre botanical garden at North Carolina State University, founded in 1976 by horticulturist Dr. James Chester Raulston. It was renamed in his honor after his death in 1996.

The arboretum features an internationally recognized collection of over 6,000 different types of plants from more than 50 countries, focusing on species adaptable to the Southeastern U.S. The grounds include diverse themed gardens such as the Annual Color Trials, Entry Garden with tropical perennials, Finley-Nottingham Rose Garden with over 200 roses, Lath House for shade-loving plants, and a large Perennial Border designed following Gertrude Jekyll’s color scheme principles.

Designed initially by Raulston and landscape architecture student Fielding Scarborough, the arboretum also features a geophyte border with hundreds of bulbs and corms, and contemplative spaces like the Southall Memorial Garden with hemlocks and open areas for gatherings. The arboretum serves as a public resource for education, research, and enjoyment throughout the year with free admission, offering trails and serene spaces that attract gardeners, nature lovers, and families alike.