3/21
Morris Arboretum
Update of a local tree field guide offers ‘antidote for plant blindness’
A new edition of “Philadelphia Trees,” coauthored by former Morris Arboretum director Paul W. Meyer, Catriona Bull Briger, and Edward Sibley Barnard offers tips for identifying tree species and highlights some of the most notable trees in the region, including many on Penn’s campus.
Goodbye to an iconic tree
More than a century old, the American elm located in the heart of the Quadrangle residences has been ailing and is due to be removed the week of July 25. The site will be replanted at a later date with three native white oaks.
A ‘reawakening’ of interest in nature
In a Q&A with Penn Today, Morris Arboretum Director Bill Cullina discusses lessons taken from the pandemic, adapting to climate change, and future research.
Progress toward a more sustainable University
Two years into the Climate and Sustainability Action Plan 3.0, Penn is tracking significant steps toward its goals.
‘Ten Thousand Birds’ merges nature with classical music
Penn Live Arts kicks off its fall season with the local premiere of “Ten Thousand Birds” given by modern chamber music ensemble Alarm Will Sound in an outdoor performance at Morris Arboretum’s Bloomberg Farm
A fountain, its steps, and its garden—restored
In a photo essay, see the newly restored Step Fountain and surrounding garden beds at the Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania.
The stories trees tell
In a photo essay, Penn Today highlights some of campus’s most iconic trees.
Cultivating beauty
Essential horticultural staff at the Morris Arboretum have been tending to the land to ensure that the sweeping property and its plants are ready for visitors when the time is right.
Celebrate the arts, history, and nature from home
While Penn’s arts and culture centers remain closed, they are still finding ways to sustain connections through online collections and programs.
Five events to watch for in March
On the calendar for March: an orchestral performance at Penn Museum, the annual Silfen Forum, and a conversation about Philadelphia as a science capital.
In the News
Hard freeze early Sunday and Monday in the Philly region could kill some ambitious blooms and blossoms
Bill Cullina of the Morris Arboretum says that magnolias and cherry blossoms may be vulnerable to cold Philadelphia temperatures, though most plants will likely be fine.
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‘It’s go time for spring’: Blossoms, buds, and temperatures are popping
Bill Cullina, executive director of the Morris Arboretum, talked about the transition from winter to spring. “I would say within the next couple of weeks it’s going to be safe to plant cold vegetables, things like onions and cabbage,” he said. “Get out there and enjoy it.”
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Rain douses another Philly rush hour, but it might just rescue the foliage show
Bill Cullina of the Morris Arboretum spoke about the meteorological conditions that impact fall foliage.
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Morris Arboretum celebrates Cherry Blossom Days: ‘Spring is definitely in the air’
Michelle Connors of the Morris Arboretum spoke about last weekend’s Cherry Blossom Days, which featured Taiko drumming and a Japanese tea ceremony.
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Head of Morris Arboretum retiring after more than 42 years, a rare tenure in botanical world
Paul Meyer was profiled for his 42-year career at the Morris Arboretum, which was transformed under his leadership. Still, he remains modest. “I played a role, but it’s a team of people. ‘We stand on the shoulders of giants,’” said Meyer. “That’s been my philosophy.”
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Big concerns ‘lanternfly’ could damage some Pennsylvania exports
Anthony Aiello of the Morris Arboretum discussed measures for limiting the spread of the lanternfly, an invasive species new to Pennsylvania that feeds on grapes and orchards.
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