Coastal Plain Research Arboretum

The Coastal Plain Research Arboretum is a living library of plants that are native to the Southeastern United States. The mission is to develop and maintain the gardens for public exhibition and enjoyment; to work with research scientists to propagate and perpetuate the distinctively beautiful plants of this area; to exemplify good stewardship; and to offer educational programs encouraging the use of native plants in the landscape, the application of environmentally sound principles, and the appreciation and conservation of our natural resources.

Many educational groups take advantage of the diversity of plants and the lovely setting. Students and teachers from nearby colleges, Future Farmers of America, and 4-H find the Arboretum an excellent resource for instruction in plant identification. The garden is also the ideal setting for Agricultural and Environmental Awareness Day, a Tifton Campus outreach to elementary students and teachers.

The Coastal Plain Research Arboretum is managed by the Landscape and Grounds unit of Tifton's Physical Plant.

Schedule a tour or event

Contact the Assistant Dean's Office at the UGA Tifton Campus to schedule a tour or event at the Coastal Plain Research Aboretum.

More about the Arboretum

The Arboretum committee was formed in 1987. Researchers Loy Morgan, Max Bass and Richard Lowrance began the clearing and initial planting of native species along the small stream; 38 acres were set aside as space for the garden. In the early 90's, John Ruter started several collections of plants: azaleas, hollies, oaks and hickories. In recent years, Garden Club of Georgia groups have contributed significantly to make the garden more "user friendly." The outdoor classroom, the red-roofed gazebo at the edge of the pond, the beautiful vine covered arbors, and renovations of The Cottage were special projects, inspired and funded by leaders in the Garden Club of Georgia, Inc.