Katso kaikki
Tutustu reitteihin
The Arboretum was established in the 1930s as a five-hectare demonstration area where those interested in the cultivation of exotic tree species could learn about their characteristics and performance under Finnish conditions. It was created alongside extensive plantings of foreign species across the Punkaharju research area. To make comparisons easier, small adjacent stands were planted so that species within the same genus grew side by side. Located conveniently near the railway station, the Arboretum initially contained 72 tree species by 1938, the majority of them conifers.
Restoration and renewal work began in the early 1990s, when 48 of the originally planted species still remained. Since then, 16 new conifer species and 33 broadleaved species have been added. For some earlier species, new stands have been established to better show each species’ distinctive traits and identifying features. The area also contains many special forms of native forest trees, such as golden, witches’-broom, and serpentine spruces, curly birches, and birches and alders with divided leaves. Today, almost 100 tree species grow in the arboretum, along with subspecies, varieties, and hybrids. Following restoration and expansion, its total area is seven hectares.
Information boards identify each major conifer species, giving the name of the species, origin, and planting year, together with basic information and distribution maps in both Finnish and English. Each conifer genus is also presented on a general board describing its basic features and species.
What is an arboretum?
An arboretum is a park or forest area where trees—and often other woody plants such as shrubs— are cultivated for display and study purposes (from Latin arbor = tree). The trees usually represent species from a wide geographical range. In addition to different species, an arboretum may also present intraspecific variation, including subspecies, varieties, and special forms.
An arboretum may be arranged systematically, with closely related species planted next to each other, or geographically, grouping species by their natural regions of origin. In a well-maintained arboretum, all species are named and presented. At its best, an arboretum can be described as a botanical garden focused on woody plants. Its purpose is not timber production but to provide experiences, learning, and knowledge about trees and their use.
