The JC Raulston Arboretum (JCRA) at NC State University is a nationally acclaimed garden with one of the largest and most diverse collections of landscape plants adapted for garden use in the Southeast. Plants are collected from around the world and evaluated in an effort to find superior plants for use in southern landscapes in an effort to diversify the American landscape.
The JCRA began as an evaluation garden under the direction of Dr. J. C. Raulston, widely considered one of the most influential plantsmen of the 20th century. Since its beginning in 1976, the Arboretum has evaluated over 20,000 types of plants, and currently displays more than 6,500 different plant selections. Included among the plantings are two nationally accredited collections – redbuds and magnolias. The plant collections are displayed in beautiful garden settings including a Japanese Garden, White Garden, Rose Garden, and more. The JCRA’s innovative educational programming, stunning gardens, and public outreach has cemented its place as one of the premiere gardens in the United States.
The Arboretum is open 365 days a year, admission is free.
