Welcome to The Polly Hill Arboretum.


  This Martha's Vineyard horticultural and botanical landmark was developed by the legendary horticulturist, Polly Hill (1907-2007). Here in 1958, Polly began an arboretum by sowing a seed, eventually bringing 20 acres under cultivation while preserving 40 additional acres as native woodland. Established in 1997 as a not-for-profit institution the Arboretum is devoted to the cultivation and study of plants and the preservation of the character and magic of this tranquil landscape.

An arboretum is a scientific collection of trees and shrubs. The Polly Hill Arboretum’s primary goals are to broaden the range of plants that can be successfully cultivated on the island, to introduce outstanding plants of ornamental merit, to preserve plants threatened by extinction, and to share our knowledge with the public. The primary focus of our plant collection is on the floras of Martha’s Vineyard, the Atlantic Coastal Plain, and eastern Asia. The Arboretum is an enjoyable and rewarding place to explore. Visit frequently and discover the extraordinary range of plants that can be grown successfully on Martha’s Vineyard.

Open year-round, serious students of the plant world and casual visitors alike will find the Polly Hill Arboretum an enjoyable and rewarding property to explore in any season.

 


Cedar Tree Foundation
Learn more about this two for one matching challenge grant and how you can help to ensure the future of this very special place.

Plant Resources
Plants are at the heart of the Arboretum.  Explore the world of plants at the Arboretum and learn about the amazing diversity of plants we grow.

Upcoming Events & Programs
"Educate yourself. Learn. That's the fun. The learning is the fun." Polly Hill