Phipps recommends:
Cornelian Cherry Dogwood

Featured

In the Desert Room, our Agave americana puts on its remarkable final show, reaching high into the sky. Visit often to track its progress and to enjoy special events.

The Agave americana can live up to 100 years and grows slowly to flower only once in its lifetime. Phipps’ Agave, which is approximately 9 feet in diameter at its base, started growing a central stalk during week of March 25 and now reaches through the glass ceiling of the Desert Room. Daytime hours at Phipps (Mon.-Sun., 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.) offer families the chance to explore the Conservatory and discover the giant agave. Update: The agave is in bloom! Visit the outdoor Japanese Garden now for the best view of the sunshine yellow flowers. Bring your binoculars for an up-close look.



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.
 
Butterfly Forest
April 24, 2010 through September 6, 2010
Like flowers that fly, our butterfly collection will enchant nature-lovers of every age. Watch as butterflies emerge from their chrysalises and flutter among the flowers. You will encounter Western Pennsylvania favorites such as Spicebush Swallowtails and Monarchs in addition to non-native species such as Julias and Zebra Longwings.
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.