Phipps recommends:
Cornelian Cherry Dogwood

Featured

Phipps' Stove Room transforms into Butterfly Forest, with various species of butterflies breaking free of their chrysalises and gracefully flying among the flowers and foliage.

Butterflies add movement to the colorful splendor of the Stove Room. Fragrant flowers, which attract butterflies because they contain a high concentration of nectar, add an aromatic element to the experience. Look for Zebra Longwings, which have yellow and black stripes; Monarchs, which are abundant in Western Pennsylvania and have a distinct orange and black pattern; Banded Peacocks, which have bright red markings; and Pipevine Swallowtails, which have dark wings with a shock of bright blue. If you're lucky, a butterfly may fly very close to you or even land on your shoulder!



Other Featured Exhibits & Events

Gothic Gargoyles and a
Giant Agave!
May 1–Sept. 12, 2010
Experience our Summer Flower Show, which features colorful summer annuals under the ever-watchful eyes of gargoyles and other mythic creatures. The show includes a 1,000-pound gargoyle, Venetian griffins and winged lions, working gargoyle spouts, floating gargoyles made of found natural materials and more.
Red, Ripe & Roasted: Tomato & Garlic Festival
Aug. 29, 2010
11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Celebrate the bounty of summer at Phipps' sixth annual Tomato & Garlic Festival, which features two of summer's tastiest crops. Enjoy an afternoon of tastings, demostrations and a farmers' market. Bring a donation for the Food Bank and receive free admission to the festival.
Phipps Sparkler 2010: Toasting America's EcoFABULOUS Garden
Oct. 14, 2010
6-9:30 p.m.
Mark your calendar now for Phipps' most celebrated annual event, complete with fine food and stunning fleur couture. Proceeds benefit the excellent exhibits and garden programs of Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.
 
Up, Up and Agave!
Ongoing
Phipps' Agave americana, estimated to be between 40 and 50 years old, is in the midst of a spectacular transformation as its central stalk grows at a rate of up to 12 inches per day, literally through the roof of Phipps’ Desert Room. Visit often to witness the rise (and fall) of this mighty succulent, which will reach 30 feet or more into the sky and bear a number of yellow, tubular flowers before slowly collapsing and dying. Update: The agave is in bloom! Visit the outdoor Japanese Garden to see the sunshine yellow flowers.
Tropical Forest: Headwaters of the Amazon
Now open
Journey to the birthplace of the Amazon River inside our Tropical Forest Conservatory, and experience the exotic plants and cultures of the most diverse region on Earth.
Farmers at Phipps
Wednesdays, June through October, 2010
2:30-6:30 p.m.
Stock up on your veggies and meet local farmers at the second annual Farmers at Phipps market on Phipps Conservatory's historic green. Choose from a variety of local, certified organic and Certified Naturally Grown (CNG) products.