Louise Arnold Tanger Arboretum, arboretum in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, U.S
The Louise Arnold Tanger Arboretum is a tree garden in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, containing more than 100 tree species from around the world, including rare varieties like the American chestnut and two specimens that are the largest of their kind in the state. The grounds span several acres and feature specialized areas such as the Dwarf Conifer Garden with about 120 small and miniature trees, as well as zones dedicated to native pollinators.
The arboretum was founded in the 1950s when naturalist Louise Arnold Tanger began planting trees around a new building. After her death in 1959, her son Charles continued the work until the early 1990s, and the grounds later received Level 1 certification from ArbNet, an international arboretum organization.
The name honors Louise Arnold Tanger, a nature supporter who championed local parks and outdoor spaces, making this place possible. Schools regularly bring students here to identify tree species and learn about plant growth in a real outdoor setting.
The main entrance is on North President Avenue and is free to visit from early morning until dusk. Wear comfortable shoes as paths can be uneven, and maps are available at various locations to help navigate the grounds.
The Dwarf Conifer Garden, added in 2015, features about 120 small and miniature cone-bearing trees and is recognized by the American Conifer Society. This specialized garden offers a collection of compact varieties rarely seen elsewhere.
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