Points of Interest

A Garden For All Seasons

Circle Drive

The Circle Drive winds its way from the Eagle Gate to the front of the Wagner House, passing large stands of Rhododendrons laid out in a series of beds that open up like windows to give you views of the house. The Circle Drive holds the majority of the Rhododendron collection that is comprised of over 500 varieties. In early spring be sure to walk slowy so you do not miss the sweet scent of the Rhododendron loderi. In autumn, the brilliant fall colors can be as spectacular as the height of bloom in April. Whatever the season, the naturalistic beauty of the Circle Drive is captivating thanks to its structural layers and companion plants that grow among the Rhododendrons. These include bunchberry (Cornus Canadensis), clover (Oxalis oregano), Oregon Grape (Mahonia aquifolium) and many species of Bishops Hat (Epimedium).

George L. Davis Flag Pole Lawn

As the Circle Drive winds its way to the front of the Wagner House it follows the perimeter of the Flag Pole Lawn. In the Flag Pole Lawn, an expanse of turf to the west of the Wagner House, stands the Chinese Empress Tree (Paulonia tomentosa). The Paulonia is one of the last trees to leaf out after its fragrant floral display of trumpet-like lavender flowers.

Brick Walk

As you exit the Fern Garden you will emerge onto our most popular springtime flower show, the Brick Walk. This beautifully patterned path is lined with Mt. Fuji cherry trees blooming over flower-filled boxwood parterre beds. Both sparkle next to the blue waters of the Quatrefoil Pool, a signature feature designed by renowned Landscape Architect, Thomas Church. At the end of the Brick Walk, Pacific dogwood (Cornus nuttalli), a harbinger of spring, frame the Teahouse. The Teahouse's lattice structure supports two old fashioned climbing roses, Cecile Brunner and Kathleen. Two other species of dogwood are also located nearby, Korean dogwood (Cornus kousa) and Cornelian cherry dogwood (Cornus mass).

Lookout

The path from the Teahouse takes you to a resting spot, stop at the Lookout. Thomas Church designed this restful overlooking the Woodland Garden and stream below. The wooden bench invites visitors to stop and contemplate. This garden has been recognized by the international organization, Gardens for Peace, as a symbol of peace and a place for reflection and meditation.