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Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, stands as the nation’s largest and most celebrated botanical garden. Recognized by USA Today as the best in the United States, it offers visitors an unparalleled journey through more than 1,100 acres of meticulously curated landscapes.
Founded in 1906 by industrialist Pierre S. du Pont, the gardens began as a modest farm aimed at preserving historic trees planted by his family in 1798. Over the decades, the estate expanded into a sprawling complex that includes exquisitely designed gardens, iconic conservatories, and sweeping vistas of the Brandywine Valley.
Beyond the ornamental displays, Longwood boasts a living collection of over 10,000 domestic and international plant species and varieties. Remarkably, about 70%—or more than 100,000 plants—are grown on site by dedicated staff, ensuring the authenticity and freshness of every exhibit.
Botanical gardens often serve as hubs for conservation and scientific inquiry, and Longwood exemplifies this role. With a research team of more than 50 specialists, the gardens focus on conservation horticulture, cultivation, stewardship, ecology, soils, and composting. Their in‑house facilities and fieldwork—spanning regional and global projects—advance our understanding of plant science and ecosystem preservation.
The team rigorously evaluates new seed and plant specimens before adding them to the collection, integrating native horticulture, ecological principles, and land stewardship to protect Longwood’s diverse habitats. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in comprehensive recycling and composting programs that significantly reduce landfill waste.
Longwood is equally devoted to education. Programs for families, youth, teachers, and students—ranging from hands‑on soil science lessons to plant identification workshops—empower learners to appreciate and protect the natural world. The gardens also offer college internships, fellowships, professional development, and online courses, making expert knowledge accessible to a broad audience.
In short, Longwood Gardens is far more than a picturesque backdrop; it is a living laboratory, an educational sanctuary, and a beacon of botanical excellence.
