Families are arranged in a semi evolutionary sequence. The most primitive families of flowering plants begin in Bed 1. A walk through this collection is like traveling through evolutionary time. The most advanced and successful plant family at present ends in Bed 40. The economic plant collection includes plants that are useful to humans, and is found in beds 41 to 90.
Different beds are devoted to specific categories of plant products or usefulness.
Refer to the tall labels to identify the category on display. This ecological collection is found on the slopes that surround the garden. Here one can find groups of plants that represent forest communities of Michigan and the eastern United States. Many wildflowers are included among the beautiful native trees and shrubs. This ornamental plants collection displays superior forms of plants that may be useful in designed landscapes.