Botanical Gardens

Seasonal displays welcome you as you approach the entrance to the Conservatory. Hundreds of colorful bulbs emerge in early spring, followed by brightly colored annuals and container displays. The holiday season brings winter foliage, twinkling lights and an evergreen tree display.

Established in 2011, this garden features unique varieties of conifers and grasses that are not usually seen in home landscapes.

The more formal gardens on the Grand Mallway feature pathways lined with evergreen shrubs and abundant perennial beds. The NavStar, created by artist Stephen Canneto, has become a landmark sculpture in the park.

The Conservatory’s trials program evaluates the performance of new annual, perennial and vegetable varieties. Each year, breeders from around the world send their newest varieties to the Conservatory to see which grow best in central Ohio’s conditions. Visit the trial gardens to view new plant collections and be inspired by artful horticulture design.

Showcasing both architectural and horticultural beauty, the Brides Garden is an elegant space popular for small ceremonies or just an afternoon stroll. Lush foliage, blooming perennials and white redbud trees are complemented by detailed stonework, a bubbling fountain, romantic swing and embellishments symbolic of the “tying the knot” theme.

Visit this garden from late spring and through the summer to view dozens of varieties of daylilies in bloom. Arranged in beds by the decade from when the varieties were introduced, this space to the south of the entry plaza erupts with color while illustrating the history of this very popular plant. The Daylily garden is maintained in partnership with the Columbus Metropolitan Daylily Society.