The Arboretum Collections
The Arboretum is an outdoor museum of trees … devoted to specimen plantings of trees and shrubs.
Located primarily in Marshall Park, the Arboretum’s conifers and deciduous trees can be seen and enjoyed throughout the grounds … in the botanical gardens and along the nature trails. While visiting, you’ll see mature plants and be able to study the different varieties that you may wish to include around your own home. [Most are carefully labeled for the benefit of guests.]
Conifer Collections
THE CONIFER COLLECTIONS. Providing a year-round respite from the outside world, you’ll find fascinating and unique shapes and colors. The Dubuque Arboretum has three collections of conifers:
- the Walter Conifer Collection. In 1995, the Walter Conifer Collection (with more than 400 dwarf and rare conifers) was donated as a memorial by the Walter family of Illinois.
- the Hermsen Conifer Collection. In 1996, Dennis and Nancy Hermsen donated 154 conifers to complement the Walter Conifer Collection.
- the Edna Mozena Conifer Collection. One of our newer garden beds (started in 2019): 3 beautiful conifer beds, artfully mixed with stunning Japanese Maples and limestone rock … a perfect complement to our Walter and Hermsen Conifer Collections.
Within these three beautiful collections, our plant count numbers almost 500. These plants:
- represent over 12 different genus and dozens of species and cultivars
- originate from around the world.
- range from large (40- to 50-foot specimens) to plants as small as 12”.
You’ll find plants that would fit into any size garden you have.
Ornamental Tree Collection
THE ORNAMENTAL TREE COLLECTION. Our Ornamental Tree Collection amazes with stunning beauty throughout the grounds … uniquely in every season:
- In the spring: Blossoming trees impress visually.
- In the summer: Fragrant flowers invite aromatically.
- In autumn: Japanese maples blaze with brilliance.
- Throughout the year: Ornamental pines display shapely artistry.
WITH APPRECIATION to the many volunteers who maintain the trees, berms, and grounds.
