Situated somewhere between the Deep South and the Mid-Atlantic, the climate in Coastal Virginia offers a unique environment for anyone interested in horticulture. At Norfolk Botanical Garden we strive to showcase the best plants that this “sweet spot” allows us to grow, while serving both as a resource for area gardeners, and as place of natural beauty for all visitors. Within our 175 acres you can see many renowned plant collections, including an internationally recognized camellia garden, an extensive hydrangea collection, the largest rose garden on the East Coast, the only accredited collection of crapemyrtles in North America, a conifer reference garden, a bonsai collection, a national hosta display garden, and of course a spring full of many beautiful azaleas.

Visitors can experience over 60 different gardens with varied styles and intents. A traditional design ethos, and a variety Asian plants are highlighted in our Japanese Garden. The Baker Perennial Garden offers year round interest, but bursts with color from spring through early fall. Our Tropical Display House is full of exotic plants, while our Virginia Native Plant Garden offers things much closer to home. Our Kitchen Garden is designed in the traditional French potager style, but uses vegetables best suited to our own climate. The Bristow Butterfly Garden is alive with both flowers and butterflies in summer. Quiet contemplation and impressive trees can be found along the miles of trails through the more natural parts of the garden; keep your eyes open for many bird, mammal, and reptile species.

Our horticultural staff come from diverse backgrounds and have varied interests. They love to share what they know, and teach a variety of classes throughout the year, from workshops, to garden tours, to more traditional offerings in classroom settings. If you have questions for them about a plant you have seen here, or about something from your own garden, please contact them at askaplantquestion@nbgs.org.