Unearthing Arboretum History
In a FONA Field Notes early last year, we shared about the role the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Company 1360 played in shaping the National Arboretum. This all-Black unit was stationed at the…
FONA Field Notes
Spring Event Guide
Spring is right around the corner! We have many exciting events and programs planned to connect people to nature at the National Arboretum.
Holly Hour
How well do you know the American holly (Ilex opaca)? The National Arboretum has one of the largest and oldest collections of American holly cultivars found anywhere. Many of these…
A Fond Farewell
Kevin Conrad, Acting Supervisory Horticulturist, retired earlier this month after 32 years of service to the National Arboretum. He wore many hats during his career at the Arboretum. He served…
Stocking Up on Plants
The annual spring Garden Fair & Plant Sale may not be until April, but we have already begun preparing for the event. In early January, our volunteer Garden Fair Committee…
Coffee Break
We are saddened to share the news that Dick Hammerschlag, a long-time National Arboretum and FONA volunteer, passed away on December 28th, 2023. Dick was a kind, thoughtful person who…
Cultivating Connections
Our Garden Team recently added a new pebble harp to the Nature Explore Classroom (NEC) to complement the other musical instruments in the space. Pebbles dropped into the harp’s slots…
Ringing in the New Year
Thank you for your support in 2023! Whether you donated your time, money, or expertise this past year, you helped us meaningfully connect thousands of people to nature, health, and…
Happy New Year from FONA
Happy holidays and happy new year from everyone at Friends of the National Arboretum! Thank you for being a part of our community. Whether you live nearby and attended a FONA…
A New Chitalpa in Town
The National Arboretum introduced a new tree into the American nursery industry earlier this fall. Strawberry Moon Chitalpa (×Chitalpa tashkentensis ‘Strawberry Moon’) is the result of a cross between Pink Dawn Chitalpa (×Chitalpa tashkentensis ‘Pink…
