Admirers come to the U.S. National Arboretum's Azalea Collection every spring to witness one of Washington's premier spring attractions. Thousands of azaleas cover the flanks of Mount Hamilton in a blaze of color. The first warm days bring out the flowers, and the slopes take on a surreal, almost luminescent glow. Few shrubs have more impact on the spring landscape-azaleas are an enduring favorite in gardens throughout the country.
Many of the shrubs in the collection sprang from the azalea breeding work of former Arboretum Director Benjamin Y. Morrison.
11641 views
|
In 1952, the walled Morrison Garden was built. It still serves as the hub that unifies the Azalea Collection today.
14211 views
|
'Susannah' azalea
10166 views
|
'Damask' azalea
10268 views
|
The 'Ben Morrison' azalea is named after Former U.S. National Arboretum Director Benjamin Y. Morrison
11696 views
|
'Fawn' azalea
9670 views
|
'Corydon' azalea
5849 views
|
'Ambrosia' azalea
7374 views
|
Masses of azaleas grow on the steep slopes of Mount Hamilton.
7200 views
|
A network of rustic woodland trails follows the contours of Mount Hamilton and allows you to view the azalea blossoms at close range.
6801 views
|
East view of the United States Capitol building from the top of Mount Hamilton. This is one of the highest points in the District of Columbia.
6615 views
|
An old States Capitol building pillar resting on the top of Mount Hamilton.
6700 views
|
'Delilah' azalea
6418 views
|
'Lullaby' azalea
6032 views
|
'Coquette' azalea
5941 views
|