One of the most scenic tourist stops in Chester County, Longwood Gardens lets visitors take in unique plant species from all over the world, writes staff for The Martha Blog.

With a global reputation for its diverse collection and artistic displays, Longwood Gardens has grown its plant exploration and acquisition program for centuries. Since a major expansion in 1956, Longwood has collaborated with numerous international conservation teams from over fifty countries to grow the plant collections by thousands of taxa.

Now, visitors continue to enjoy the beloved gardens’ exceptional collection in Kennett Square. Stretching 1,100 acres across indoor and outdoor displays, there is always something new to see with each visit.

One stretch of the gardens features Japanese elm trees native to northeast Asia. Nearby, the topiary display features over thirty-five cultivated yews.

Indoors, visitors can find a Willow Leafe Spice Bush, a stunning shrub native to China. The striking green leaves turn to an orange-red shade before shedding each fall.

Nearby indoor displays also feature “Blue Elf” aloe and South African Lion’s Tail shrub.

The gardens’ collection of aloe plants continues indoors with numerous species on display alongside a wide collection of cacti.

Longwood Gardens’ artistry excels with the gardens’ balanced representation of textures and colors. The hybrid Euphorbia “Miner’s Merlot” adds a dark burgundy shade and a somewhat spiky texture to the surrounding display. Nearby, the Hawaiian “Maui wormwood” shows off a fine, hair-like texture.

Thanks to decades of propagation of careful collection, visitors from near and far can continue enjoy scenic global nature all in one of Chester County’s most beloved attractions.

Read more about the unique plants on display at Longwood Gardens in The Martha Blog.

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Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on VISTA.Today in November 2025.