The Vanderbilt University Arboretum is home to over 6,000 trees and shrubs, representing over 190 species. Extending over more than 300 acres, it is a fundamental piece of Vanderbilt’s identity and provides many benefits to the human and non-human inhabitants of the university and surrounding community.
The Arboretum’s history extends back to the founding of the University. Bishop McTyeire, a founder of the university, supervised a massive tree campaign along with the construction of the first campus buildings. The educational mission of the arboretum was reflected in the designation of the campus grounds as “the Arboretum” as early as 1878. At least one tree predates the university. Today, the campus is certified by several agencies, most recently by ArbNet as a Level II Arboretum and Tree Campus USA.
With the history of the campus in mind, the arboretum continually evolves and grows under the care of University Landscape Architect James Moore and the grounds team. Annually, new trees and plants are strategically planted throughout campus. In alignment with the FutureVU master plan, the team continues to look for ways to the campus and make the arboretum open and inviting to the Vanderbilt University and Nashville community.
Explore the Arboretum
Developed by the Geographic Information Services (GIS) department, the interactive tree map is a guide for Vanderbilt and Nashville community members to virtually explore the university’s Level II ArbNet certified arboretum.
View a larger version of the interactive tree map.
