The Illinois Central College Arboretum is a living classroom.  Begun in 1980, construction has been done exclusively by ICC horticulture students and staff.  Projects include a patio and fence, raised planters, lath structure, flagstone wall, a water garden, and the newest addition, still under development, a Japanese garden.  Featured plant collections encompass crabapples, birches, oaks, dwarf and unusual conifers, small maples, hydrangeas, and extensive shade perennial beds boasting over 325 varieties of hosta.  These are arranged in related groups, such as a species bed, sieboldiana bed, fortunei bed, and montana bed.

While its purpose has been mainly to serve as a living laboratory of plants taught in horticulture classes, it also serves as a test area for new varieties, a place for home gardeners to get ideas for their own yard, and a quiet locale for strolling and relaxation.  Free brochures are available for the conifer and maple collections.

Since 1981, the arboretum has been a display garden for the All-American Selections of flowers and vegetables.  Over 200 varieties of annuals are showcased each summer, mainly in the display beds north of the arboretum, but also dispersed throughout the garden.  These are highlighted on the first Saturday after Labor Day, when ICC hosts its annual Landscape and Garden Day, annually attracting over 1500 gardening enthusiasts.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect plant to use in your own yard, a leisurely stroll, or a respite from the summer sun, the Illinois Central College Arboretum can help.  Education, in harmony with nature.