The Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania

The Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania is a historic public garden and educational institution. It promotes an understanding of the relationship between plants, people, and place through programs that integrate science, art, and the humanities. The Arboretum conducts four major activities, including education and botanical research, community outreach, and horticultural display.'

~ Mission Statement of the Morris Arboretum

The Morris Arboretum is the official Arboretum of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and an interdisciplinary center under the umbrella of the University of Pennsylvania. The Morris Arboretum is also an internationally-recognized educational institution, outdoor museum and public garden that is dedicated to promoting an understanding of the important relationship between people, plants, and place. A renowned institution, the Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania provides botanical research, environmental education, public outreach and horticultural display for local, regional, national and international visitors and students each year. As one of only 16 botanical gardens in the nation accredited by the American Association of Museums, and recorded on the National Register of Historic Places, the Morris Arboretum promotes the intersection of science, art, and the humanities through its collection of over 14,000 rare, curated and scientifically documented plants intermingled with its fine arts compilation of sculptures and fountains, as well as its many historic features.

Since opening to the public as the Morris Arboretum in 1933, this historic landscape has been adapted and enhanced, currently welcoming more than 90,000 local, national, and international visitors annually. Programs, exhibits, and services of the Morris Arboretum emphasize the organization's work and mission. The Arboretum's Children's Education Program, family programs, public events and activities, and exhibits reach more than 20,000 children and 70,000 adults annually. Its Membership Program benefits over 5,000 households, including over 9,500 adults and 4,500 children. The Arboretum also provides 130 continuing education classes, tours and workshops for 2,400 participants of all ages. The Public Programs Department hosts 45 public events and supports the Arboretum as a venue for 100 private events annually. The Arboretum staff -- including the Education, Horticulture, Facilities, and the Development Departments -- gratefully acknowledges the 558 volunteers who provide over 10,000 hours of service each year to these areas. For 26 years, Arboretum staff has provided professional education and training for more than 200 interns from the United States and abroad, all who have gone on to hold leadership positions in botanical organizations worldwide. The Arboretum answers more than 1,000 inquiries through its free Plant Clinic, and conducts state-wide research and education, data collection, and consultation concerning natural areas and the preservation of open spaces through the work of Dr. Timothy Block, Director of the Arboretum's Botany Department, and Dr. Ann Fowler Rhoads, the Senior Botanist.