More than 250 African plant species are represented, including a number imported through a zoo field program in the African nation of Cameroon and found nowhere else in the country. Among the Cameroon plants represented are aframomum, leea, rauvolfia, psychotria and African tulip trees. The zoo's natural habitat approach to animal exhibits requires the extensive use of exotic plant materials throughout the park. Outstanding examples of the exterior use of these plants can be found near the entrance to the R.J. Reynolds Forest Aviary and at overlooks for the Forest Glade outdoor gorilla habitat. Located in the Uwharrie Mountain range of Randolph County, the zoo also is home to a beautiful array of native Piedmont plants such as deciduous rhododendrons, flowering dogwoods, Eastern redbud trees, oaks and maples.
Spring is the best time to witness the spectacular colors of the zoo's blooming plants.
Among the spring attractions in the aviary are several species of ginger, along with pinwheel jasmines, lobster claw heliconia, lollipop plants, paper flowers and flame of the woods. The 200-acre North American region, opened in phases between 1994 and 1996, more than doubled the zoo's plant collection. Along with creatures such as tarantulas, gila monsters, road runners and ocelots, the Sonora Desert also features an extensive collection of cacti and other desert plants, including saguaros as tall as 12 feet. In 1994 it was honored as the first zoo exhibit ever to receive the outstanding landscape award from the American Association of Botanical Gardens and Arboretums. Little wonder that visitor surveys show plants and landscaping are an integral part of the zoo experience.