PHILADELPHIA, PA .- The Morris Arboretum is marking 90 years as a public garden with a new name—Morris Arboretum & Gardens.

The new name harkens back to the original Compton owners, John and Lydia Morris, and their shared vision of a public garden where spectacular trees live in harmony with colorful, beautiful gardens. The Morris Arboretum & Gardens opened to the public on June 4, 1933.

“As we stand on the cusp of our second century, our role as a research institution and a place for joy and healing has never been more critical,” said F. Otto Haas Executive Director Bill Cullina. “Lydia Morris gifted the Arboretum to the University of Pennsylvania so it could become a place for botanical research, horticultural education and public engagement. With the expansion of our research program, educational opportunities for children, students and adults, and a focus on beauty and color in horticultural design, I believe we are celebrating Lydia’s gift in all we do.”

The Morris’s renewed commitment to bringing more color and beauty to the Arboretum will be on display this summer as it reopens its popular Rose Garden and debuts a new pop-up garden that is a modern interpretation of the intricate and vibrant flower beds favored by Victorians. Throughout the year, events and programs will celebrate the anniversary, including themed garden tours, fun kids’ activities, and a specially priced community weekend.

90th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

In addition to a new name, logo, and refreshed brand for this anniversary year, visitors to Morris Arboretum & Gardens will see updates to beloved elements, as well as a colorful floral exhibit.

As the enchanting Garden Railway observes 25 years of its model trains chugging along, 300 feet of track is being added. This is the largest expansion of the Garden Railway since it was installed in 1998 and brings the rail line total to a third of a mile. The exhibit’s theme this year is “Public Gardens,” featuring models of structures from public gardens from across the country made from natural materials like acorns, seed pods, and twigs.

The blooms of spring are heralding a beautiful new look for the Rose Garden that brings more accessibility. Bluestone pavers have been installed on the two central axis walkways, making it easier for visitors of all ages and abilities to experience the flowers.

Step into an explosion of color this summer as we debut Exuberant Blooms: A Pop-Up Garden. Opening June 24, Exuberant Blooms is a vibrant, immersive display of more than 10,000 plants spread over a quarter acre that showcases plants of varying color, form, height, and shape. Exuberant Blooms is made possible with support from the Powder Mill Foundation and Ball Horticultural Company.