Open Every Day. Free Every Day. | August 2026 Summer Spectacles in the Explorers Garden Nestled in a microclimate just below the summit of Bussey Hill, the Explorers Garden has long served as a testing ground for plants collected from around the world. This month visitors should not miss the spectacular seven-son flower (Heptacodium miconioides) and its masses of tiny, fragrant, white flowers that attract an array of pollinators. After flowering, long-lasting red or rose-pink bracts create the illusion of a second bloom. Also unforgettable is the Franklin tree (Franklinia alatamaha), represented by what are believed to be the oldest and largest specimens in cultivation. Extinct in the wild for more than two centuries, the species survives today as one of conservation’s earliest success stories. Its luminous white flowers are followed by—and sometimes coincide with—brilliant autumn foliage in tones of orange, scarlet, and crimson. The autumn graces of the Explorers Garden will delight guests at the debut of a new event, Afterglow at the Arnold, on September 24. Whether you explore online or in person, discover what makes the Explorers Garden so extraordinary. Explore the Collection Tracing the Hummingbird-Red Flower Connection Why are hummingbirds drawn to red flowers? On her podcast A Way to Garden, NYT garden columnist Margaret Roach speaks with Arboretum postdoctoral researcher Patrick McKenzie about his study that combined 1.6 million iNaturalist observations with artificial intelligence to dig into that question. Patrick and his colleagues discovered that red and orange flowers bloom later in spring than flowers of other colors, closely tracking the northward migration of ruby-throated hummingbirds in eastern North America. Their findings provide compelling new evidence of a long-standing evolutionary relationship between these plants and their pollinators. For gardeners, these findings offer practical insight into creating landscapes that support hummingbirds, from planting favorites such as cardinal flower, wild columbine, and scarlet bee balm to observing pollinator activity through the season. It also shows how everyday observations shared through community science can advance botanical discovery. Listen to the full conversation online and discover how careful observation can reveal hidden patterns in the natural world. Learn More Cultivating Curiosity with Nature Journaling Have you ever wanted to keep a nature journal or find a more creative way to connect with the outdoors? On August 9 at 2:00pm, the Arnold Arboretum will host Nature Journaling: A Virtual Program, an engaging online workshop led by botanist and creative facilitator Kristel Schoonderwoerd. Participants will use simple sketchbook exercises and materials gathered from nearby trees to explore observation, creativity, and the diversity of tree forms. No previous art or botanical experience is needed. This workshop is offered exclusively to Arnold Arboretum members, highlighting one of the many benefits of membership. Along with supporting the Arboretum’s mission, members enjoy access to special programs, events, and learning opportunities designed to foster meaningful connections with plants and nature. Become a member and join this inspiring virtual experience while discovering even more ways to engage with the Arboretum throughout the year. Learn About Membership Discover Nature’s Small Wonders Bring the family on Saturday, August 15 at 10:00am to discover the Arboretum’s tiniest residents in our All-Ages Insect Safari, a free drop-in adventure for curious explorers of every age. Participants can use sweep nets and bug boxes to safely catch insects, examine their finds with digital microscopes, and meet entomologists who will help identify the fascinating critters they uncover. Come ready to move, explore, and experience the natural world up close. Families with children ages 3 to 5 can extend the fun through our Little Explorers programs on August 10 and August 24 at 10:00am. Designed for young children and their grownups, these engaging sessions combine nature-themed stories, crafts, and outdoor exploration inspired by the season. Whether your child is fascinated by insects, plants, birds, or simply getting outdoors this summer, August offers plenty of opportunities to discover, learn, and play together at the Arnold Arboretum. Register for Insect Safari Visit Events Stories Plants Join All images from the Arnold Arboretum © 2026 President and Fellows of Harvard College.