Like a 'plant zoo,' the Will Rogers Park Arboretum brings together a variety of trees in a single location, where visitors can enjoy and learn about them.

The Arboretum contains trees that grow throughout Oklahoma, including species prized for their timber, valued as sources of food and medicine or treasured simply for their beauty.

The Arboretum originated in the 1930's, when City Horticulturist Henry Walters planted the first trees there. Since then, the trees have grown in size and number.  We think it's become the best arboretum in Oklahoma.

Here are just a few of the many tree species collections located within the arboretum:

Oak Collection: Many different kinds of Oaks are displayed, some common, such as Shummard's Oak. Many Oaks in the collection are native to Oklahoma. Some of these include White Oak, Bur Oak and Northern Red Oak. Other specimens on display are less common such as the Japanese Emperor Oak, a native to Mongolia and China.

Juniper Collection: Almost everyone is familiar with the 'cedar trees' that grow naturally in Oklahoma. These are actually a type of Juniper. At the arboretum, juniper species such as J. chinensis, scopulorum and virginiana are displayed. Many people are amazed to see unusual versions of the common cedar tree. Specimens range in color from silvery-blue to yellow to those with irregular patches of yellow variegation. Some plants are shrub-like, while others are tree-like in appearance.

Crab Apple Collection: These trees welcome spring each year with a vibrant burst of floral color. They are a great choice for both spring and fall interest. The colorful fall fruit and foliage of some varieties can be just as spectacular as the spring blossoms. Many shorter varieties are available, a perfect fit for limited residential spaces. Newer selections are very pest and disease resistant.

Crape Myrtle Collection: Crape myrtles are shrubs that bloom during the hot months of summer and into fall. The color selection ranges from red to pink to white to purple. Newer selections are quite disease resistant and range in size from twelve inches to over twenty feet in height. these versatile plants are well adapted to our climate and are a good low maintenance alternative. Many of the plants on display were originally selected from the National Arboretum breeding program.

Redbud Collection: In addition to its status as the state tree of Oklahoma, the Redbud is a valuable addition to the residential landscape. The tree's shorter stature makes it quite useful in smaller spaces. In spring, the trees are covered with purplish-pink, pea-like flowers. Some selections have white flowers. An unusual specimen in the collection includes the Mexican Redbud. This tree has glossy, wavy, crinkled leaves that add a new twist to an old favorite. The Garden Exhibition Center in Will Rogers Park is home to the Oklahoma City Council of Garden Clubs. The council was organized in 1921 to promote horticulture, flower gardening and conservation.