Mount Holyoke College Botanic Garden

Mount Holyoke College Botanic Garden is a botanical garden in South Hadley with the Talcott Greenhouse complex and surrounding planted areas. The site holds more than 2,000 plant species from six continents, featuring tropical, subtropical, and temperate collections.

Professor Lydia Shattuck founded this botanical garden in 1878 as an educational resource. A fire in 1896 destroyed the original structure, leading to the construction of the Talcott Greenhouse complex that strengthened the garden's purpose.

The garden maintains a tradition where first-year students receive plants to care for during their time on campus. This practice connects students to living things and to the college experience in a personal way.

The site is open year-round for visitors interested in exploring the diverse plant collections, offering easy access for all interests. It helps to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the season, since your visit includes both indoor greenhouse areas and outdoor planted grounds.

The Virginia Craig Rhododendron Garden displays native species from Eastern North America and Asia growing side by side. The Heckel Staircase Garden features steps made of local Goshen stone, creating a distinctive pathway through the grounds.

Inception: 1879

Part of: Mount Holyoke College

GPS coordinates: 42.25740,-72.57240

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:40