Southeastern Plant Symposium and Rare Plant Auction

Hosted by the JC Raulston Arboretum and Juniper Level Botanic Garden

Thursday, June 4 and Friday, June 5, 2026

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The world of horticulture is always growing, with new plants, new techniques and new philosophies constantly reshaping the field. The 2026 Southeastern Plant Symposium is your exclusive opportunity to discover the latest plant innovations, meet industry leaders and deepen your knowledge of modern gardening practices. This two-day event is perfect for plant lovers, gardeners, horticulturists and anyone passionate about cultivating thriving landscapes.

Join us in Raleigh, North Carolina, or virtually via Zoom for an exciting exploration of the future of horticulture. Whether you’re looking to discover cutting-edge plants for your garden or stay ahead of the latest gardening trends, this symposium will cover everything from low-maintenance, high-impact performers to rare and unusual species. Presentations will cover a wide range of topics, from rethinking landscapes with beautiful, functional greenery to introducing native plants that support local ecosystems. You’ll gain valuable insights into the plants and techniques that are shaping the future of horticulture.

Network with nurserymen, garden designers and fellow plant enthusiasts as you explore groundbreaking horticultural techniques and gain fresh perspectives on the plant world. With expert-led sessions and thought-provoking presentations, you’ll leave the event inspired and equipped with the knowledge to transform your landscape.

Can’t make it to Raleigh? No problem! The 2026 Southeastern Plant Symposium will be live-streamed via Zoom, and recorded presentations will be available to all participants after the event. Don’t miss this chance to engage with the best and brightest in the plant world, no matter where you are!

Sponsorship opportunities are available for the annual Southeastern Plant Symposium hosted by the JC Raulston Arboretum and Juniper Level Botanic Garden. Interested or have questions? Contact Amy Beitzel at amy_beitzel@ncsu.edu or 919-515-1680.

Events like this innovative symposium are only possible through the support of our fellow horticulturists. We hope that you will consider sponsoring the symposium so that we can continue sharing the endlessly exciting discoveries in the world of plants. Proceeds support the mission of the JC Raulston Arboretum and the Juniper Level Botanic Garden Endowment.

The accompanying Rare Plant Auction has already reached legend status in the industry, and this Rare Plant Auction is going to be our biggest and best auction to date. When the auction goes live, we'll have over a hundred plants ready for bidding. Plants will be added as we get them, including the days of the Southeastern Plant Symposium itself, so make plans to check the auction listings each day. Because when cool plant people get together, they share cool plants!

Auction proceeds benefit the JC Raulston Arboretum and the Tony & Anita Avent Juniper Level Botanic Garden Endowment. Funds supporting the JC Raulston Arboretum are managed by the North Carolina Agricultural Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)3 nonprofit, Tax ID 56-6049304.

Questions

Contact the JCRA Education Team at jcraprograms@ncsu.edu for more information about registration, presentations and other symposium information.