What’s in Bloom?
Highlands Botanical Garden features a wide variety of flowering native plant species that bloom during different times of the year. We strive to maintain an updated list of what plants are currently in bloom from early spring (February) through the end of autumn (October).
Tours of the Highlands Botanical Garden
To experience a diversity of native spring wildflowers here in Highlands, join staff horticulturalist Erika Selman every Monday morning between May 27 and August 26 at 10:30am for a themed tour of the Botanical Garden at the Highlands Biological Station. Meet at the Nature Center located at 930 Horse Cove Road and be sure to bring your cameras! Please note that the Nature Center itself is closed until May. Private group tours are also available throughout the week by appointment and can be reserved by calling (828) 526-0188.
What’s in a Name? (May 27, July 1, Aug. 5)
Tour the garden and learn how certain plants got their names. From names based on morphological characteristics to the people that named them, this tour will cover it all. It’s also kid friendly.
Wildflowers and Their Pollinators (June 3, July 8, Aug. 12)
Explore the garden with an eye for native wildflowers and their pollinators. We will discuss flower characteristics and what attracts pollinators to the plants. This is family friendly and fun Botany 101.
Historically Significant Plants (June 10, July 15, Aug. 19)
The Botanical Garden is filled with notable plants of the southern Appalachians. We will learn about the importance of some of these plants in an historical context. Which plants are important for their uses and which became famous for their discoverers? This tour is more suitable for an older audience.
Carnivorous Plants (June 17, July 22, Aug. 26)
Are you fascinated by the thought of meat-eating plants? Learn the eating habits and trapping methods of southern Appalachian carnivorous plants, where you can find them, and why they are important in their habitats. This tour is very kid friendly.
Deadly Plants and Folklore (June 24, July 29)
Enjoy a tour of the garden focused on the deadly plants of the southern Appalachians. Learn which plants are toxic and what parts of the plant can harm you, then round out your knowledge with a discussion of the history and folklore behind these plants. For all ages.
- While you are not required to R.S.V.P. to these walks, we encourage you to let us know in advance if you are coming.
- Interpretive guided tours for private groups are also available throughout the year and can be arranged by appointment. They are free of charge, but donations are always appreciated.
- Talks on various botanical topics are also available to local garden clubs and other adult organizations.
- To schedule either a tour or a talk, contact our Horticultural Specialist at (828) 526-0188 or the Nature Center at (828) 526-2623.
