Winterhazel (Corylopsis spicata) in full bloom

This is the original collection at the Gardens. The oldest section is a massing of lilacs, both hybrids and species that were originally planted in 1927. Ben Blackburn, a Rutgers professor, expanded this collection during the late 1930's through the early 1950's. Not only did Ben organize the planting of shrub species and cultivars by family, but he also produced a very attractive outdoor 'Garden Room' in the process.

Kobus Magnolia (Magnolia kobus)

Many desirable shrubs, including Alternate Leaf Buddleia (Buddleia alternifolia), Vernal Witchhazel (Hamamelis vernalis - which usually starts to bloom in late December), Winterhazel (Corylopsis spicata) and Dwarf Bush Honeysuckle (Diervilla lonicera) are all sequestered amidst this 'Garden Room'.

Two notable trees are also in this garden: a very large Kobus Magnolia (Magnolia kobus) and a beautifully branched Swamp Magnolia (Magnolia virginiana) that blooms form late May into August.

Last Modified: 10/10/2007, rugardens@njaes.rutgers.edu.
©2008 Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey