The Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is one of the most prominent horticultural educational facilities in downtown Pittsburgh. Founded in 1893 by Henry Phipps, the Phipps Conservatory and Gardens offers a dynamic experience by placing an emphasis on indoor rooms that transport the visitor to exotic climates and ecosystems. Examples include the Palm Court, Serpentine Room, Fern Room, Tropical Fruit and Spice Room, the Sunken Gallery, and the Desert Room. The garden holds several outdoor gardens as well, including Japanese and Aquatic Gardens.

But while the garden features many interesting specimens, its Metasequoias have not grown well. This is strange because the climate is similar to other locations where the trees grow well.



The Phipps received four Metasequoias from the Arnold Arboretum in 1952. They were planted quickly and have reached unspectacular sizes. They range from 25 to 45 feet tall with bases 17 to 23 inches in diameter. Two of them were successfully relocated in 2003, but obviously this has not greatly affected their growth because they were already 49 years old at that time. It is strange that Metasequoias do not grow well in this area. It is one of the more peculiar mysteries of my research, because Metasequoias grow quite well in Ohio and the Delaware Valley.

Regardless, the Phipps is a beautiful garden with a conservatory that features dynamic indoor climate rooms. This is unusual amongst the gardens and arboretums in my study, which focus on outdoor gardens. So if you are in the area, there are many reasons to visit the Phipps.

Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

1 Schenley Park

Pittsburgh, PA 15213

http://www.phipps.conservatory.org/

Data courtesy the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

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