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