David T. Beals iii
Woodland & sTREAM GARDEN
The David T. Beals III Woodland & Stream Garden is home to plants that thrive in shade. Its most popular display includes masses of hardy azaleas and rhododendrons. Cross over bridges above flowing streams for views of shade-loving perennials including astilbes, bleeding hearts, and woodland phlox. Visitors can view these beautiful plantings from the Carl and Jean Chinnery Lower Deck Garden or the Natalie Prussing Upper Deck Garden which feature secluded woodland seating and peaceful respite.
In early-spring, snowdrops, daffodils, and winter aconite cover the garden. To escape the heat of summer, wander up a winding path to a deck overlooking a pool draped with ferns and heucheras. Log planters display tropical plants from our collections houses. In the fall, take a detour via the lower mulch path to see the splendid fall color of sourwoods and serviceberries.
What’s in Bloom?
Early-Spring
Look for the red blooms of the vernal witch-hazels along the main path in late January and into February. In March, the snowdrops, winter aconite, hellebores, and Siberian squill are followed by daffodils for one of the best bulb displays in the garden.
Spring
In April, the dogwood and redbud blooms fill the understory of the garden. As May approaches, look for the lacy blooms of the fringe trees as you enter the garden from the prairie. Continue along the main walk to see the extensive beds of azaleas blazing throughout the month of May.
Summer
Escape the summer heat and look for the smooth hydrangea in bloom near the lower viewing deck in June. Along the main path, the butterbur foliage and the blooms of the bottlebrush buckeye are mid-summer must-sees. Take the upper concrete path to spot the subtle blooms of Virginia sweetspire and to smell the spectacular Carolina allspice. As summer fades, look for the pink blooms of rose turtlehead along the bridge on the main path. Sit for a moment and enjoy the colorful log planters with summer annuals and tropical plants from the curated collection house.
Fall
As September approaches, the pawpaws are ripening overhead at the junction of the main and upper concrete path. Look for the unusual clear yellow of the Autumn Gold dogwood near the bald cypress grove along with the yellow fothergilla foliage. As fall color peaks in October, take the lower mulch path to look for the red and orange of the sourwoods and serviceberries.
