Brooklyn Botanic Garden (BBG) is a renowned botanical garden in Brooklyn, New York, that features a diverse collection of native plants from the local region. The Native Flora Garden at BBG showcases a wide variety of plant species that are indigenous to the New York City metropolitan area, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty and ecological significance of these local ecosystems.
Types of Native Plants at Brooklyn Botanic Garden
The Native Flora Garden at Brooklyn Botanic Garden is home to a diverse array of native plant species, including:
- Wake-robin (Trillium species)
- Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis)
- Blue cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides)
- May-apple (Podophyllum peltatum)
- Joe-pye weed (Eupatorium)
- Goldenrod (Solidago)
- Pokeweed (Phylolacca americana)
- Wingstem (Actinomeris alternifolia)
- Cassia species (wild senna or partridge pea)
- Native grasses
- Common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca)
- Spotted horsemint (Monarda punctata)
These plants are carefully selected to represent the natural habitats and ecosystems found in the New York metropolitan area, providing visitors with a glimpse into the region’s rich botanical heritage.
Supporting Local Pollinators
The Native Flora Garden at Brooklyn Botanic Garden plays a crucial role in supporting local pollinators, such as bees, wasps, monarch butterflies, and other insects. The garden’s diverse plant selection provides a range of nectar, pollen, and shelter resources for these important species, helping to preserve the delicate balance of the local ecosystem.
Unique and Important Plants
The Native Flora Garden at BBG is home to several unique and important plant species, including:
- Bloodroot
- Trillium
- Spring ephemerals
- Tall grasses
- Colorful blooms
- Late-blooming flowers
- Plants specific to local habitats like pine barrens, meadows, and bogs
These plants play a vital role in the local ecosystem and are often threatened by habitat loss and other environmental pressures, making the Native Flora Garden a crucial conservation site.
Garden Design and History
The Native Flora Garden at Brooklyn Botanic Garden was established in 1911 and has undergone several redesigns and expansions over the years. The garden’s design aims to recreate the natural habitats of the New York metropolitan area, with plants arranged to represent different ecosystems such as deciduous woodland, kettle pond, pine barrens, and meadows. The garden’s expansion in 2012 introduced new habitats like coastal plain grasslands and serpentine barrens, using wild-collected seeds to preserve genetic diversity.
Visitor Information
- Cost: Admission to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden varies depending on the time of year and visitor type. General admission is $18 for adults, $12 for seniors and students, and free for children under 12.
- Timings: The garden is open year-round, with varying hours depending on the season. From April to October, the garden is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and from November to March, it is open from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
- Directory: The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is located at 990 Washington Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11225. Phone: 718-623-7200.
- Hours: The garden is open every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas.
- Rates: Membership rates vary, with individual memberships starting at $75 and family memberships at $125.
The Native Flora Garden at Brooklyn Botanic Garden offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors interested in exploring the rich diversity of native plants found in the New York metropolitan area. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a gardener, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the natural world, the Native Flora Garden is a must-visit destination that showcases the importance of preserving and celebrating local ecosystems.
References
- Brooklyn Botanic Garden. (2011). The Native Flora Garden. Retrieved from https://www.bbg.org/article/native_flora_garden
- naturesurrounds. (2013). Native plants at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Retrieved from https://naturesurrounds.wordpress.com/2013/08/21/native-plants-at-the-brooklyn-botanic-garden/
- ecolandscaping.org. (2015). A Wild Garden in the Middle of Brooklyn. Retrieved from https://www.ecolandscaping.org/03/designing-ecological-landscapes/native-plants/a-wild-garden-in-the-middle-of-brooklyn/
- Brooklyn Botanic Garden. (n.d.). Native Flora Garden. Retrieved from https://www.bbg.org/collections/gardens/native_flora_garden
- Brooklyn Botanic Garden. (2021). Native Flora Garden at Brooklyn Botanic Garden (Video). Retrieved from https://www.bbg.org/article/native_flora_garden_at_brooklyn_botanic_garden_video
- Brooklyn Botanic Garden. (n.d.). Plan Your Visit. Retrieved from https://www.bbg.org/visit