UNIV. OF CENTRAL FL. BIOGEOGRAPHIC GARDENS

Herb and Rock Pond Meditation Garden

Within Mediterranean section of garden. The idea and overall design of
this feature was to capture on a small scale the natural landscape of
the southern mediterranean. The plants chosen for the design [such
as Punica granatum (pomegranate), Ficus carica (edible fig), Nerium
oleander (Oleander), and Olea europea (olive)] are all endemic to
that geographic location.

       

Mediterranean Vineyard Garden

This is located just west of the Herb and Rock Pond and is an extension of
the mediterranean-themed garden. An area of Bahia grass was transformed
into a working small-scale vineyard. All grape varieties chosen for this project
were chosen for their adaptability to Florida's climate. Research behind
choosing the correct varieties of grapes was conducted by visiting local
Central Florida vineyards/wineries.

Wildflower Meadow

Located in the Native Florida section of the biogeographic gardens. The idea
behind this project was to create a small-scale restoration model, successfully
transforming part of a Bahia grass field back into a beautiful native Florida
xeric scrub wildflower meadow. Sixteen different species of native Florida
wildflower and grass seeds were chosen, some of which were hand collected.
Six months after planting, an abundant meadow of wildflowers can now be
enjoyed by all who visit the Arboretum.

       
Before and after photos