Perennial Garden

Perennial Garden Gazebo Tree

Perennial Garden Overview

Originally established in 1976 as a lilac collection, these five acres were once known as the Bridal Garden and have served as the backdrop for thousands of wedding ceremonies and photography. Amid green lawns and beds of perennials, bulbs, vines, trees, and shrubs, lies the focal point of the garden, the gazebo, which was constructed in 1986 by a generous donation from The Friends of Horticulture, Inc.

The gazebo area was thoughtfully re-designed in 2019, to enhance the visitor experience and to extend the bloom season. The changes include the addition of more seating in the form of teak benches and grassy knolls, a wide paved ADA accessible main pathway to the gazebo, and a dense palette of innovative perennial and woody plantings arranged in a series of segmented spirals.

In spring, the Perennial Garden comes alive with the colors and fragrances of over 200,000 bulbs, as well as lilac, crabapple, and cherry blossoms. Late spring and summer bring dynamic color and form to the garden, including flowers of iris, peony, hibiscus, and lavender, among many other annuals, perennials, and shrubs. Pollinators and butterflies flock to the profusion of pollen and nectar. In fall, ornamental grasses reach their peak bloom and grandeur, and the changing leaves of ginkgo, sweetgum, and stewartia provide rich autumnal color. Winter interest is provided by evergreens, standing grasses, and winterberry hollies.

This garden has become a destination spot for local and out-of-town visitors and remains a beloved destination for wedding ceremonies and photography.

The gardens are free to visit and open daily from sunrise to sunset. Leashed pets and small picnics are permitted. Guided tours can be arranged for a small fee.

Perennial Garden 2   Perennial Garden 3

Contact


LOCATION:
Colonial Park (Lot F)
156 Mettlers Road
Somerset, NJ 08873

HOURS:
Sunrise to Sunset Daily

ADMISSION:
None

FOR INFORMATION CONTACT:
Somerset County Park Commission
Horticulture Department
Colonial Park Gardens
156 Mettlers Road
Somerset, NJ 08873

Tel: 908-722-1200 ext. 5721
Fax: 732-873-3896
TTY: Use the NJ Relay Service @711 (for individuals with hearing/speech impairments)
E-mail the Colonial Park Gardens with any questions or comments