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It’s fall in the Mid-Atlantic and brisk, sunny days provide opportunities for wonderful walks outdoors. Fall brings fabulous color to the U.S. Botanic Garden (USBG), so while you’re out enjoying the season, make sure to take the time to stroll here.

The National Garden’s Regional Garden features Mid-Atlantic native plants and highlights the beauty of the region's flora. This is the season to study our trees and shrubs; come enjoy the slow light as it shines on the purple muhly grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris) and the brilliant yellow petals of the narrow-leaf sunflower (Helianthus angustifolius). Be amazed with the pinks and purples of the aromatic aster (Symphyotrichum oblongifolium, pictured above) and unique ‘crumpled’ yellow blooms of our American witch-hazel (Hamamelis virginiana), blooming through November. You will also spy the extremely showy clusters of glossy purple fruit on the American beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) and the distinctive bright red berries of the common winterberry holly (Ilex verticillata) from late fall throughout winter. Additionally, during the fall enjoy the vibrant purple, red, orange and yellow foliage of the deciduous trees and shrubs. Our native plants are nothing short of spectacular and the National Garden will give you ideas for your garden.

For a bit of warmth on a chilly day, step into the Conservatory to be wowed by the second blooming of orchids. The Orchid room features around 200 orchids at any given time, including the impressive Cattleya genus, which are familiar to many as “corsage” orchids. The ever-changing collection will spotlight blooms in stunning shades of amethyst, orange, red, yellow and others that are speckled and spotted.

Come visit the USBG, a beautiful and colorful oasis right on the Mall with wonderful displays year round. A map marked with some of the National Garden’s blooming plants is on display inside the Conservatory. The Conservatory and National Garden are open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 

Learn more about the U.S. Botanic Garden at: www.usbg.gov.