Marsh Botanical Garden

History and Establishment

Established in 1899, the garden originated from a bequest by paleontologist Othniel Charles Marsh, who donated his estate and plant collections to Yale University.

This 8-acre botanical garden and arboretum is located on the Yale University campus at 265 Mansfield Street in New Haven, Connecticut.

Research Facilities

The garden features six greenhouses comprising approximately one-third of an acre under glass.

These facilities support research and instruction for Yale faculty and students, particularly those in the departments of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology (MCDB), Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (E&EB), and the School of Forestry and Environmental Studies (F&ES).

Seasonal Highlights

Throughout the seasons, the Marsh Botanical Garden offers diverse displays of plant life.

In summer, naturalistic beds and wildflower plantings provide color and attract birds and butterflies.

Spring brings bulb displays, early flowering shrubs, and trees that add vibrant hues to the landscape.

The garden also showcases many woody plants with striking fall color, both from leaf and fruit displays.

Collections and Notable Specimens

Visitors can explore collections of cacti, insectivores, and orchids within the greenhouses.

The garden also houses several outstanding tree specimens, including White Oak, Swamp White Oak, and European Beech.

Visiting Information

The outdoor areas of the garden are open to the public from 7am to sunset daily, while the greenhouses are accessible Monday through Friday between 9am and 4pm.

Future Plans

Currently, the Marsh Botanical Garden is undergoing renovations and restoration of its gardens and collections.

A new master plan aims to revitalize the garden, blending research and teaching facilities with a public conservatory, all within a landscape that honors the garden's historical legacy while creating new opportunities for the future.