Donald E. Davis Arboretum: A Native Plant Sanctuary

The Donald E. Davis Arboretum, nestled on the Auburn University campus, serves as a living testament to the botanical diversity of Alabama and the Southeastern U.S. [1, 5, 11]. Established in 1963, the 13.5-acre arboretum has evolved into a cherished destination for students, faculty, residents, and tourists seeking a connection with nature [12, 6]. The arboretum's grounds feature meticulously curated collections representing Alabama's diverse ecosystems, including mixed oak forests, carnivorous bogs, and longleaf pine savannas [1]. These collections include over 1,000 plant types, with 500 different plant species and over 3,000 cataloged specimens [1]. Visitors can explore over a mile of interwoven walking trails that meander through various southeastern biotopes [1]. Key highlights include the nationally recognized Oak Collection, featuring all 39 of Alabama's native oak species [1, 10]. The Rhododendron Collection is also world-renowned, boasting 60 varieties of Rhododendron and Azalea, including the Auburn Azalea Series of hybrids [1]. During spring, the Arboretum hosts the Auburn Azalea Festival, showcasing the vibrant blooms [1]. The Arboretum is actively involved in plant conservation through the Alabama Plant Conservation Alliance and serves as a testing ground for sustainable practices [13, 4]. Visitors can take a self-guided tour, "Managing Stormwater the way Nature Does," to learn about sustainable water management techniques [4, 10]. The Arboretum also hosts various events throughout the year, including plant sales, workshops, and art exhibitions [5, 12]. The Donald E. Davis Arboretum is open year-round from sunrise to sunset and offers free admission [18, 2]. It serves as an outdoor classroom, a research facility, and a peaceful retreat, promoting education, conservation, and appreciation for the natural world [5, 10, 6].