“It is a real treat when I’m doing yard work—or any time I walk to or from the front door—I can see a plant that came from the Arnold Arboretum. A very meaningful connection!”
Sarah Freeman, Arboretum member
Each spring, we promote the cultivation of exceptional woody plants in our region through the Arbor Day Seedling Program. This exciting benefit of membership is offered to current members at the Arbor Day ($150) level and above.
The Arbor Day Seedling program helps us connect with our community through remarkable plants, and is offered with thanks to members for their generosity to the Arboretum. We hope you will enjoy celebrating Arbor Day or Earth Day by planting a seedling associated with our collections in your garden.
In 2025, we are pleased to offer the Winecraft Gold smoketree (Cotinus coggygria ‘Winecraft Gold’) as our Arbor Day seedling. Many cultivars of this smoldering plant exist throughout the Arboretum landscape, including Bussey Hill summit, along Meadow Road, and the Leventritt Garden. This compact variety is ablaze with bright colors from spring to fall. Its lime green foliage is highly tolerant of full sun, turning to yellow throughout the fall. In early summer, pink plumes rise from old wood, so refrain from pruning until after flowering. It is sure to add exciting textures to your home garden. Download our plant description and planting instructions.
Qualifying members may pick up their Arbor Day Seedling at our Weld Hill Research Building (1300 Centre Street, Boston, MA 02131; see map below) on:
- Thursday, April 17 from 5:30–7:30pm
- Friday, April 25 from 8:00–10:00am
Members do not need to register in advance to pick up their plants in-person. Drive or walk up, give us your name, and we’ll give you a plant and answer your planting and care questions. Seedlings will be available while supplies last on a first-come, first-served basis.
Plant Shipping
The deadline for registering to have the 2025 Arbor Day Seedling shipped (Friday, March 21) has passed. If you are a qualifying member and would still like to receive a seedling this spring, please plan to attend one of the pick-up dates listed above.
Not yet a member?
To participate in the Arbor Day Seedling program this spring, become a member of the Arnold Arboretum at the Arbor Day level ($150) or above to request a seedling. To upgrade your existing membership to qualify, please email the Membership Department or call 617.384.5766.