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.
10433 views
|
In 1952, the walled Morrison Garden was built. It still serves as the hub that unifies the Azalea Collection today.
11943 views
|
'Susannah' azalea
8951 views
|
'Damask' azalea
9057 views
|
The 'Ben Morrison' azalea is named after Former U.S. National Arboretum Director Benjamin Y. Morrison
10425 views
|
'Fawn' azalea
8446 views
|
'Corydon' azalea
5619 views
|
'Ambrosia' azalea
7141 views
|
Masses of azaleas grow on the steep slopes of Mount Hamilton.
6975 views
|
A network of rustic woodland trails follows the contours of Mount Hamilton and allows you to view the azalea blossoms at close range.
6574 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.
6325 views
|
An old States Capitol building pillar resting on the top of Mount Hamilton.
6396 views
|
'Delilah' azalea
6192 views
|
'Lullaby' azalea
5810 views
|
'Coquette' azalea
5730 views
|