About The North Carolina Arboretum
The North Carolina Arboretum encompasses 434 acres of cultivated gardens and well-maintained forest trails that delight the senses, pay tribute to the region’s rich cultural heritage, and reinforce the importance of plants to our world. Strolling with an eye toward wonder through the Arboretum allows visitors to connect personally with nature in ways that are as unique and rich as the land itself.
Nestled in the lush Southern Appalachian Mountains, one of the most botanically diverse and beautiful natural settings in America, the Arboretum is located just south of downtown Asheville, adjacent to the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway and within the vast Pisgah National Forest. The land the Arboretum now stewards has a history of settlement dating back over 17,000 years; the original stewards, the Anikituwagi, are known more commonly today as the Cherokee. The Arboretum was established as an affiliate of the University of North Carolina System by the State General Assembly in 1986.
Adult & Continuing Education Programs at the Arboretum
We produce a number of bonsai-related classes each year, including Beginning Bonsai workshops, styling demonstrations, Bonsai Exhibition Garden Tours and Curator’s Talks. We also produce original educational videos that highlight the Arboretum’s collection, and we collaborate with our curator to publish The Curator’s Journal.
We invite you to grow in mind and grow in place. Leading experts teach over 200 classes, workshops and field experiences each year on a range of topics in natural history, ecology and culture; horticulture and landscape design; nature-inspired contemplative arts; and wellness. A University of North Carolina affiliate, the Arboretum offers immersive learning opportunities with the Blue Ridge Naturalist and the Blue Ridge EcoGardener Certificates of Merit as well as continuing education and professional development offerings for landscape architects, green industry professionals, and environmental and elementary school educators across the state. Sign up to receive regular updates through our monthly e-newsletter on our webpage.
“What I never expected from taking these courses was the joy of giving myself permission to play and explore in nature again.”