About Us

volunteers at the arboretum

The University of Alabama Arboretum features walking trails through a native woodland section, a wildflower garden, a collection of ornamental plants, an experimental garden, and a children’s garden. Most of the Arboretum’s land was donated by the federal government to help support the University’s goals of promoting research and providing public education and service.

Today the Arboretum is part of a national network that shares plant information with scientists, students, and the public.

The Arboretum is sponsored by the Department of Biological Sciences in the College of Arts & Sciences at The University of Alabama.

The UA Arboretum is an affiliate of The University of Alabama Museums and cooperates with museum staff on education and outreach programs.

Our Mission

The University of Alabama Arboretum is a scientific institution that engages in teaching, research, and service with primary emphasis on the ecology and biodiversity of Alabama.

The Arboretum maintains a plant collection containing native species and their exotic relatives, educational reference specimens, and plants of global conservation concern.

The Arboretum’s programs promote management, conservation, and sustainable use of natural resources and appreciation of nature through recreational activities and artistic endeavors.

Learn more about the Arboretum’s vision, or view our extensive photo collection.