Skip to content

Gardens & Collections

The Conservatory’s extensive gardens and art collections pulse with life and bring the wonders of nature right to you. Discover over 400 species of plants from around the world in the Conservatory’s biomes, explore historic glasshouses & unique horticulture spaces or simply marvel at the intricate glasswork of Dale Chihuly.

Staff’s Favorite Plant of the Month

April: Dwarf Iris (Iris reticulata)
Staff member: Katherine Speicher, Botanical Gardens Manager
Location: Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Community Garden Campus

The genus, Iris, has around 300 species. You might be familiar with the bearded iris, Iris germanica, but unlike the bearded iris that grows from rhizomes, dwarf iris, Iris reticulata, is an early blooming spring bulb that has small flowers that are 4″-6″ tall. There are a variety of colors of dwarf iris, including different shades of purple, white, and yellow. The word, iris, is also shared by the Greek goddess of the rainbow, and because there are many colors of iris this is perhaps a reason behind the plant’s name. You can find this bulb at most garden centers or online in the fall which is when you would want to plant it in your garden. Over time this plant will multiply or naturalize in your garden with one bulb turning into multiples over the years!

Q&A with Katherine

Conservatory Explore the beauty of the natural world no matter the weather or time of year. See over 400 species of plants displayed indoors in the Conservatory’s glass greenhouses.
John F. Wolfe Palm House The John F. Wolfe Palm House and connecting Dorothy M. Davis Showhouse are the oldest portions of Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.
The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children's Garden Celebrating the Ohio landscape, the Children’s Garden focuses on introducing and connecting children to the natural world, as well as renewing that connection for their parents and caregivers.
Botanical Gardens Stroll abundant outdoor gardens full of seasonal color and interest, set within the 88-acres of Franklin Park.
Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Community Garden Campus Open to the public, the Community Garden Campus provides a space for beauty and respite. The campus houses community garden plots, the Teen Corps garden, and an outdoor event venue.
Chihuly Collection Dale Chihuly’s vibrant glass artwork makes a lasting impression on all who view it.
Bonsai Collection A rotating selection of trees from the Conservatory’s Bonsai Collection are on display each year in the Bonsai Courtyard and Dorothy M. Davis Showhouse.
Light Raiment II Internationally renowned light artist James Turrell’s architectural light installation illuminates the Conservatory’s John F. Wolfe Palm House in an inspiring display of light.
Cardinal Health Gallery Contemplate the creative works of local and international artists during the rotating exhibitions in the Cardinal Health Gallery.
Tree Collection Franklin Park Conservatory sits within an 88-acre green space oasis and is home to 1,593 trees, including 169 species, that provide important ecological benefits such as cleaner and cooler air, bird and pollinator habitats, beautification, and health improvement for neighbors.