Collections

Plant collections are the foundation of the JC Raulston Arboretum. Some of these collections represent what we feel are the most comprehensive in the Southeast, the United States, or even in the world. Others simply represent collections that are more substantial than any others to be found in the southeastern United States, or they represent a representative assemblage of the best, new, or significant, members of the group. Our collection contains 6,489 taxa in the Arboretum's living collection in 10,247 plantings. Given our space limitations, the following list is particularly striking:

Boxwood Collection

Discover new cultivars and uses for one of the most time-honored garden shrubs. Also an important trial garden with an international reputation, the Boxwood Collection is an elegant, evergreen setting for private parties.

Conifer Collection

The famous Conifer Collection is rich with color, texture, and diversity. A living laboratory which tests the bounds of these plants in our hot, humid climate, it continues to be a proving ground for important plant introductions.

Dwarf Loblolly Pines

Stroll along these striking, memorable trees that are unique to JCRA. Our dwarf loblolly pines are the only collection of its type in the world and a favorite with visitors.

Herbaceous Perennials

Flower lovers adore this collection which boosts over one thousand perennials that survive and thrive in hot, humid weather. Many of the plants also offer year-round interest, a plus for southern gardens.

Holly Collection

Our extensive collection of evergreen and deciduous hollies is recognized by the American Holly Society and is an important teaching tool for both home and professional gardeners.

Japanese Maple Collection

A living catalog of different shapes, sizes, and colors, this is one of the Southeast 's best collections of Japanese maples (Acer palmatum) and a valuable living demonstration for home gardeners. The Japanese maple is also the living symbol of the JC Raulston Arboretum.

Magnolia Collection

Enjoy months of flowers while discovering rare and new cultivars. The collection is notable for its size and variety, and is a treat for magnolia enthusiasts.

Maple Collection

One of the JCRA's most important and inspiring collections, the Maple Collection delights visitors with nearly 200 kinds of maple trees, including newly introduced evergreen maples. Our Acer collection in Raleigh is unique!

Redbud Collection

The JCRA's nationally recognized collection includes varieties of our native eastern redbud as well as redbuds (Cercis) from around the world. Not to be missed when this favorite spring tree is in flower and for outstanding foliage at other times of the year. Come visit us in Raleigh in spring time to enjoy our Cercis collection.