Boyce Thompson Arboretum and Botanical Garden

by Wendy VanHatten

Founded in 1924 by William Boyce Thompson, this mining magnate understood the importance of plants as our ultimate survival.

BTA now holds plants from all corners of the world, including US, Mexico, Australia, Madagascar, India, China, Japan, Israel, South America, Middle East, Africa, the Mediterranean, and the Arabian Peninsula. All told, over 4,000 taxa and 20,000 plants. This 372 acres of scenic upland in the Sonoran Desert includes over five miles of trails.

 

BTA is Arizona’s largest and oldest botanical garden.

If You Go: Boyce Thompson Arboretum is located at 37615 E. Arboretum Way in Superior, Arizona.

More about Boyce Thompson Arboretum and Botanical Garden

Boyce Thompson Arboretum and Botanical Garden is a captivating botanical oasis located in Superior, Arizona, USA. Spanning over 392 acres, it is one of the largest and oldest botanical gardens in the state. Established in the 1920s by mining magnate William Boyce Thompson, the arboretum is renowned for its diverse collection of desert plants from around the world.

The arboretum showcases a stunning array of plant life, including cacti, succulents, trees, shrubs, and wildflowers, representing various desert ecosystems from Arizona, North America, and beyond. Visitors can explore themed gardens such as the Cactus Garden, Australian Desert Garden, and South American Garden, each meticulously curated to highlight the unique flora of different regions.

One of the highlights of Boyce Thompson Arboretum is its picturesque trails that wind through the landscape, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature while learning about desert plants and their adaptations. The iconic Queen Creek flows through the property, adding to the serene ambiance and providing a habitat for native wildlife.

In addition to its botanical wonders, the arboretum also features educational programs, workshops, and guided tours designed to educate visitors about desert ecology, conservation, and sustainable gardening practices. The onsite visitor center offers resources, exhibits, and a gift shop where guests can further explore and appreciate the beauty and importance of desert flora.

Boyce Thompson Arboretum and Botanical Garden stands as a testament to the resilience and beauty of desert ecosystems, providing a tranquil sanctuary for nature lovers, botanists, educators, and tourists alike to discover, appreciate, and conserve the rich biodiversity of the desert Southwest.

Main photo: Boyce Wildflower & butterfly garden by Wikipemedia Commons

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