What is Nichols Arboretum, and where is it located?

Nichols Arboretum, locally known as the Arb, is an arboretum situated on the campus of the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan. It serves as a dedicated space for the study and display of trees and other plant species within a varied, hilly landscape.

What is the approximate size of Nichols Arboretum?

Nichols Arboretum covers an area of 128 acres, which is equivalent to approximately 52 hectares.

Who operates Nichols Arboretum?

Nichols Arboretum is operated by the University of Michigan.

What natural feature is Nichols Arboretum adjacent to?

Nichols Arboretum is located adjacent to the Huron River.

How many species are featured in Nichols Arboretum, and how many of those are trees?

The arboretum features over 400 species, including 110 different species of trees.

What is a signature feature of Nichols Arboretum known for its peony collection?

A signature feature of Nichols Arboretum is the W. E. Upjohn Peony Garden, which holds the largest collection of heirloom peonies in North America.

Who designed Nichols Arboretum, and when was it established?

Nichols Arboretum was designed by O. C. Simonds, a noted American landscape gardener and alumnus of the University of Michigan. It was established in 1907.

Who were Esther Connor Nichols and Walter Nichols, and what was their contribution to the arboretum?

Esther Connor Nichols and Walter Nichols were individuals who donated a portion of the land for the arboretum to the University of Michigan in 1906. The arboretum was subsequently named in their honor.

What were the early aspirations for a botanical garden at the University of Michigan?

Early plans for the University of Michigan's main campus, dating back to the 1830s, indicated a desire to establish a large botanical garden. However, these initial plans were not implemented, and the university's first botanical garden was not founded until 1897.

What was the historical significance of the ravine known as "Schoolgirls' Glen"?

The ravine, which led from Forest Hill Cemetery down to the Huron River, was known as "Schoolgirls' Glen" by the 1850s, likely named for pupils of a girls' school who gathered flowers there. It became a popular retreat for university students due to its proximity to campus and its natural beauty.

What was the agreement between the City of Ann Arbor and the University of Michigan regarding the arboretum's management?

The City of Ann Arbor and the University of Michigan agreed that the university would create and manage a botanical garden and arboretum on the combined land. In return, the city committed to building roads and providing policing for the area.

What design philosophy did O. C. Simonds employ in his plans for Nichols Arboretum?

O. C. Simonds' design philosophy for Nichols Arboretum focused on integrating with the existing natural landscape rather than imposing artificial structures. He created "long views," which are carefully orchestrated perspectives within the landscape designed to lead the visitor's eye towards specific points, such as a tree-filled horizon in the Main Valley.

Why did the University of Michigan's botany faculty express dissatisfaction with the arboretum site?

The botany faculty were displeased with the Nichols Arboretum site because its hilly terrain made it unsuitable for constructing greenhouses necessary for advanced plant research. Consequently, they pursued and secured a different site for a new botanical garden in 1914.

When was the site officially named Nichols Arboretum?

The site was officially named the Nichols Arboretum in 1922, after its responsibility was transferred to the landscape architecture faculty for use solely as an arboretum.

What significant donation of peonies was made to the arboretum, and by whom?

William E. Upjohn, an alumnus of the University of Michigan Medical School, donated his personal collection of peonies to the arboretum in 1922. This collection formed the foundation for the W. E. Upjohn Peony Garden.

What event or development led to increased erosion issues in Schoolgirls' Glen?

The expansion of the University of Michigan in the 1950s, including the construction of major facilities like Mary Markley Hall and C.S. Mott Children's Hospital, created large impervious surfaces uphill from the arboretum. This significantly increased the volume of rainwater runoff into Schoolgirls' Glen, leading to erosion and the washing away of soil and plants.

What historic building was relocated to the arboretum in 1998 to serve as an education center?

The historic Nathan Burnham House, originally built in 1837 in Ann Arbor's Lower Town, was moved approximately one mile north to the arboretum in February 1998. It now serves as the James D. Reader Jr. Urban Environmental Education Center, which opened in 1999.

What is the annual "Shakespeare in the Arb" event?

Shakespeare in the Arb is an annual event that began in 2000, featuring presentations of Shakespeare plays performed in various locations throughout the Arboretum. The productions are known for their natural staging, without artificial scenery or lighting, and often incorporate the surrounding environment, including interruptions from wildlife and park visitors.

When were the Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum administratively reunited?

The Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum were administratively reunited in 2004, forming a new department that manages the university's research forests and farms, and coordinates programming between the two sites.

What are some of the notable tree species found in Nichols Arboretum?

Nichols Arboretum features a diverse collection of trees, including Cedars of Lebanon, Chinese Fringetree, Ginkgo, various conifers like pines, spruces, and firs, species from the Cupressaceae family, hackberries, hawthorns, Korean Quasibark Tree, larches, trees from the Legume family (like redbud and honeylocust), Magnolias and tuliptrees, various Maples and Buckeyes, numerous oak species, Turkish Hazelnut, and species from the Ulmaceae family such as elms and zelkovas.

What is significant about the Cedars of Lebanon planted in 1946?

The four specimens of Cedars of Lebanon (Cedrus libani) planted in 1946 are notable because they are located at the extreme edge of their cold hardiness range, indicating the specific climate conditions they can tolerate.

What is notable about the Chinese Fringetree at the arboretum regarding its status in the state?

The Chinese Fringetree (Chionanthus retusus) at Nichols Arboretum is believed to be the oldest specimen of its species in the state of Michigan.

What types of conifers were planted in Nichols Arboretum, and during which period?

Conifers, including many species of pine (Pinus), spruce (Picea), and fir (Abies), were planted primarily between the 1910s and 1930s. Specific examples include ponderosa pine, lodgepole pine, Engelmann spruce, and Nordman fir.

What species of larches are found in the arboretum, including Japanese and European varieties?

The arboretum contains Japanese larches (Larix kaempferi), planted in 1938, and a few European larches (Larix decidua), planted in 1952.

What are some examples of trees from the Legume family present in the arboretum?

Trees from the Legume family (Fabaceae) found in the arboretum include Eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis), American yellowwoods (Cladrastis kentukea), honeylocust (Gleditsia triacanthos), Kentucky coffeetree (Gymnocladus dioicus), black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia), and Japanese pagoda tree (Sophora japonica).

What species of Magnolias and related trees are found in the collection?

The collection includes Fraser magnolias (Magnolia fraseri), umbrella magnolias (Magnolia tripetala), and tuliptrees (Liriodendron tulipifera).

What native and Asian oak species are represented in the arboretum?

Native oaks include red (Quercus rubra), white (Quercus alba), black (Quercus velutina), bur (Quercus macrocarpa), shingle (Quercus imbricaria), and swamp white (Quercus bicolor). Asian oaks represented are sawtooth oak (Quercus acutissima) and oriental oak (Quercus variabilis).

What is the W. E. Upjohn Peony Garden known for, and when was it established?

The W. E. Upjohn Peony Garden is recognized as the largest public collection of historic (pre-1950) herbaceous peony cultivars in North America. It was established in 1927, based on a donation of peonies from William E. Upjohn in 1922.

What types of plants are featured in the Centennial Shrub Collection?

The Centennial Shrub Collection features popular ornamental shrubs and small trees, including crab apple trees, hawthorn trees, a lilac collection, and spiraea.

What is the Dow Prairie area, and what has been done to it?

The Dow Prairie and its adjacent woods, covering 36 acres (14 hectares), have been restored to resemble the landscape prior to European settlement. It features native prairie plants such as Big bluestem (Andropogon gerardi) and Butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa).

What types of plant communities are found in the Wetlands area of the arboretum?

The Wetlands area includes wet meadow and hardwood swamp species, such as American elm (Ulmus americana), red ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), silver maple (Acer saccharinum), and black ash (Fraxinus nigra).

What type of forest characterizes the Uplands area of Nichols Arboretum?

The Uplands area is characterized by second and third-growth woodland, predominantly an oak-hickory forest. The oldest oaks in this area range from 75 to 119 years old, and the oldest hickories are between 109 and 135 years old.

Describe the view shown in the first image of the Main Valley.

The first image displays a view of the Main Valley within Nichols Arboretum, highlighting a subtly designed "long view" that emphasizes the surrounding landscape and draws the viewer's eye towards the horizon.

What does the postcard image depict from circa 1918?

The postcard image from circa 1918 depicts Schoolgirls' Glen, which is now part of the Arboretum, showing a scenic view along the Huron River.

What does the 1906 plan illustrate regarding the arboretum's development?

The 1906 plan illustrates the initial design concept for the arboretum, showing how the grounds were intended to be laid out, integrating natural features with planned plantings.

What is shown in the photograph of the Peony Garden in June 2011?

The photograph taken in June 2011 shows the W. E. Upjohn Peony Garden in full bloom, showcasing the vibrant colors and abundance of the peony collection.

What is the official website for Nichols Arboretum?

The official website for Nichols Arboretum can be found at mbgn.umich.edu/nichols-arboretum.

Nichols Arboretum Wiki: Arboreal Tapestry: Unveiling the Nichols Arboretum

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Arboretum Overview

Location & Scope

Nichols Arboretum, affectionately known as "The Arb," is a distinguished arboretum situated on the campus of the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Nestled adjacent to the scenic Huron River, this expansive 128-acre (52-hectare) landscape is a testament to botanical diversity and thoughtful design.

Botanical Richness

The Arb is home to an impressive collection exceeding 400 species, including approximately 110 distinct species of trees. This rich biodiversity creates a dynamic and evolving natural environment, offering educational and aesthetic value throughout the year.

Signature Collection

A jewel within the Arboretum is the W. E. Upjohn Peony Garden. This renowned garden boasts the largest collection of heirloom peonies in North America, showcasing hundreds of cultivars that bloom spectacularly in late May and early June, drawing visitors from afar.

A Legacy of Growth: Historical Context

Early Aspirations and Establishment

The vision for a botanical garden at the University of Michigan dates back to the 1830s. While initial plans were not realized, the university established its first botanical garden in 1897. The ravine known as "Schoolgirls' Glen," a popular student retreat, became the foundation for the Arboretum. In 1906, Esther and Walter Nichols donated land, stipulating its use as a botanical garden, complementing land acquired by the City of Ann Arbor. The Arboretum officially opened in 1907, managed by the university.

Simonds' Vision and Evolution

Renowned landscape gardener O. C. Simonds was commissioned to design the Arboretum, commencing in 1906. His approach emphasized integrating the design with the existing natural topography, creating subtle "long views" that draw the eye across the landscape, most notably in the Main Valley. Initially intended as a botanical garden, faculty preferences led to its designation solely as an arboretum, officially named Nichols Arboretum in 1922.

Challenges and Reintegration

The Arboretum faced challenges, including increased stormwater runoff from surrounding development, which caused significant erosion. In 1999, the historic Nathan Burnham House was relocated to the site, becoming the James D. Reader Jr. Urban Environmental Education Center. The annual "Shakespeare in the Arb" performance began in 2000, adding a cultural dimension. In 2004, the Arboretum was administratively reunited with the Matthaei Botanical Gardens, fostering coordinated programming and management.

Botanical Treasures: The Collection

Arboreal Diversity

Nichols Arboretum features a remarkable array of trees, with over 110 species represented. The collection includes specimens dating back to the early 20th century, showcasing a wide range of conifers and deciduous trees from various regions.

Cedars of Lebanon (Cedrus libani): Four specimens, planted in 1946, representing the edge of their cold-hardiness range.
Chinese Fringetree (Chionanthus retusus): Believed to be the oldest specimen in Michigan.
Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba): With trees planted before 1920.
Conifers: Extensive plantings from the 1910s-1930s, including various pines (Pinus spp.), spruces (Picea spp.), and firs (Abies spp.), such as Ponderosa Pine and Engelmann Spruce.
Cupressaceae: Four genera planted from the 1920s-1950s, including junipers (Juniperus spp.), arborvitae (Thuja spp., Platycladus spp.), and false cypresses (Chamaecyparis spp.).
Hackberries (Celtis spp.): Several species are present.
Hawthorn: Numerous species, historically important, with many dating from the 1920s.
Korean Quasibark Tree (Picrasma quassioides): Possibly the only specimens in Michigan, planted in 1933.
Larches (Larix spp.): Including Japanese Larches (Larix kaempferi) planted in 1938.
Legume Family (Fabaceae): Featuring species like Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis), American Yellowwood (Cladrastis kentukea), Honeylocust (Gleditsia triacanthos), Kentucky Coffeetree (Gymnocladus dioicus), Black Locust (Robinia pseudoacacia), and Japanese Pagoda Tree (Sophora japonica).
Magnolias & Relatives: Including Fraser Magnolia (Magnolia fraseri) and Tuliptrees (Liriodendron tulipifera).
Maples, Horse Chestnuts, and Buckeyes: Planted in the 1920s and 1930s, with species such as Trefoil Maple (Acer cissifolium) and Sycamore Maple (Acer pseudoplatanus).
Oaks: A significant collection of native oaks (red, white, black, bur, shingle, swamp white) and Asian oaks (sawtooth, oriental).
Turkish Hazelnut (Corylus colurna): Thriving in the Main Valley.
Ulmaceae Family: Including American Elms (Ulmus americana), European and Asian elms, and Japanese Zelkovas (Zelkova serrata).
White Pines (Pinus strobus): Approximately 150 Eastern White Pines planted in 1952 complement older stands.

The Peony Garden

The W. E. Upjohn Peony Garden is a centerpiece of Nichols Arboretum. Established with a donation of peonies from Dr. William E. Upjohn in 1922, it has grown into North America's largest public collection of historic (pre-1950) herbaceous peony cultivars. With around 350 cultivars, it offers a breathtaking display of color and fragrance each spring.

Landscape Philosophy: The "Long View"

O. C. Simonds' Approach

The landscape design of Nichols Arboretum, conceived by O. C. Simonds, is characterized by its subtle integration with the natural terrain. Simonds, a proponent of conservationist landscape design, aimed to enhance the inherent beauty of the site rather than impose artificial structures.

The Art of the "Long View"

A signature element of Simonds' design is the creation of "long views"—carefully orchestrated vistas that draw the visitor's eye towards distant, often tree-filled horizons. The Main Valley serves as the most prominent example of this technique, offering an expansive perspective that harmonizes with the natural contours of the land, reminiscent of his work in Chicago's Lincoln Park and Graceland Cemetery.

Distinctive Features

Shakespeare in the Arb

Since 2000, Nichols Arboretum has hosted "Shakespeare in the Arb," an annual theatrical tradition. This unique presentation stages Shakespearean plays in various natural settings throughout the Arboretum, embracing the surrounding environment—including wildlife, weather, and ambient sounds—as integral parts of the performance. It fosters a dynamic interplay between literature, nature, and community.

Restored Natural Areas

The Arboretum encompasses diverse natural areas, including the Dow Prairie and adjacent woods, which have been meticulously restored to reflect pre-European settlement ecosystems. These areas feature native prairie grasses and wildflowers, providing vital habitat and showcasing the region's ecological heritage.

Planning Your Visit

Location and Coordinates

Nichols Arboretum is located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, adjacent to the Huron River. Its precise geographic coordinates are 42.28131°N 83.72329°W.

Dimensions

The Arboretum spans 128 acres (approximately 52 hectares).

Official Information

For the most current information, visitor guidelines, and event schedules, please consult the official website:

Visit Official Website

Interactive Map

Explore the Arboretum's layout and surrounding areas with this interactive map:

View Map

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Nichols Arboretum" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about nichols_arboretum while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

tom garrett virginia politician

air transport command

puinave language

makalu

european charter for regional or minority languages

References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Nichols Arboretum Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data and has been refined for clarity and depth, but it may not be entirely exhaustive, up-to-date, or reflect the most recent developments.

This is not official guidance. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for consulting official sources, visiting the location, or seeking advice from qualified professionals. Always refer to the official Nichols Arboretum website and University of Michigan resources for the most accurate and current information.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Arboreal Tapestry

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Arboretum Overview ℹ️

📍 Location & Scope

🌳 Botanical Richness

🌸 Signature Collection

A Legacy of Growth: Historical Context 📜

🌱 Early Aspirations and Establishment

🏞️ Simonds' Vision and Evolution

🕰️ Challenges and Reintegration

Botanical Treasures: The Collection 🌿

🌲 Arboreal Diversity

🌸 The Peony Garden

Landscape Philosophy: The "Long View" 📐

🏞️ O. C. Simonds' Approach

👁️ The Art of the "Long View"

Distinctive Features 🌟

🎭 Shakespeare in the Arb

🏞️ Restored Natural Areas

Planning Your Visit 🗺️

🧭 Location and Coordinates

📏 Dimensions

🌐 Official Information

🗺️ Interactive Map

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Arboretum Overview

Location & Scope

Botanical Richness

Signature Collection

A Legacy of Growth: Historical Context

Early Aspirations and Establishment

Simonds' Vision and Evolution

Challenges and Reintegration

Botanical Treasures: The Collection

Arboreal Diversity

The Peony Garden

Landscape Philosophy: The "Long View"

O. C. Simonds' Approach

The Art of the "Long View"

Distinctive Features

Shakespeare in the Arb

Restored Natural Areas

Planning Your Visit

Location and Coordinates

Dimensions

Official Information

Interactive Map

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice