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Welcome to The Polly Hill Arboretum, a Martha's Vineyard horticultural and botanical landmark, developed
over the past forty years by the legendary horticulturist, Polly
Hill. It is here that Polly brought twenty acres under cultivation
while preserving forty additional acres as native woodland. Crisscrossed
by old stone walls surrounding open, wildflower-filled meadows and
characterized by vernacular Vineyard architecture, the Arboretum
is preserved as a not-for-profit institution established in 1996
and is devoted to the cultivation and study of plants.
Its primary goals are to determine those plants that can be successfully cultivated on Martha’s Vineyard, to develop and introduce outstanding plants of ornamental merit into American horticulture, and to serve as a sanctuary for plants that are threatened by extinction in their native habitats. A further but equally significant endeavor is to preserve the character and magic of this tranquil and enchanting Vineyard landscape.
The Arboretum also offers a variety of educational opportunities
ranging from the practical to the theoretical for students of all
ages and a lecture series featuring noted horticulturists, botanists,
landscape architects and garden designers from around the world.
Research initiatives focus on the floras of eastern Asia and the
close relationships shared by the plants of that vast region with
those of eastern North America.
Open during all seasons of the year, serious
students of the plant world and casual visitors alike will never
fail to find The Polly Hill Arboretum an enjoyable and rewarding
property to explore.
Home of the world renowned North Tisbury azaleas
(species and hybrids of the horticulturally important genus Rhododendron),
the Arboretum is subtly beautiful from early spring into summer
due to the great care that has been given to the overall landscape
effect of the diverse collection of plants.
Witch Hazels, winter
hazels, camellias, and magnolias begin to flower in late winter
and early spring, joined by rhododendrons, viburnums, and dogwoods.
In late spring and early summer, stewartias — close relatives
of the camellias and appreciated for their distinctive bark flower in profusion.
As summer turns into fall, the annual display
of fall foliage signals the end of the growing season. At that time
of year, new surprises continue to meet the observer’s eyes
at every turn. And even during the winter months, the Arboretum
is enchanting with its stately conifers that are complimented by
both deciduous and evergreen hollies, which mark the season.
Consider a donation to support the activities of the Polly Hill Arboretum or become a member today!
OUR
MISSION
The mission of the Polly Hill Arboretum
is to perpetuate the experimental tradition in horticulture
established by Polly Hill, by sharing
of knowledge of plants and scientific procedure through educational
programs, research, plant conservation and exploration. The Arboretum seeks to
preserve its meadows and woodlands, to promote an understanding
of its collections, and to encourage their utilization for
scholarship, observation, and the enjoyment of all.
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