The North Carolina Arboretum celebrates bright blooms this May as it hosts major flower shows that showcase spring’s beauty.

The American Rhododendron Society’s Southeastern Chapter Annual Show kicks the month off on May 1 and May 2. Hundreds of blooms will be displayed at the Education Center during the show, including many favorite mountain plants. Azaleas as well as spring and summer blooming rhododendrons are among the most popular. Visitors are encouraged to expand their experience by visiting the National Native Azalea Collection – a popular destination amid the Arboretum’s 434 acres.

On May 8 and May 11 , the Carolinas Dahlia Society and the NC Chrysanthemum Society celebrate the season with their Spring Dahlia Tuber and Cuttings Sale. Learning from Dahlia and Mum Society experts, visitors can uncover the secrets of how to produce plants with show quality blooms. Varieties include traditional favorites plus the latest cultivars to start the growing season. Chrysanthemum Cuttings will be for sale only on May 8; tubers and dahlia plantlets will be for sale on May 11.

The fragrant and vivid world of roses will be on display on May 29 and 30 as The Asheville Blue Ridge Rose Society’s Annual Exhibit will be showcased at the Arboretum. Roses of every color and size will be featured during the exhibition and experts will present educational programs. Knowledgeable society members will be available to provide information about the selection, care and history of these magnificent garden plants. A rose sale will be held in conjunction with the exhibition, which will include the sale of rose fertilizer and soil amendments

Shows and events are free for Arboretum Society members or with the standard parking fee ($8 per personal motor vehicle). Visitors are encouraged to explore the Arboretum’s kaleidoscope of spring color, 65 acres of cultivated gardens, 10 miles of hiking and biking trails, engaging exhibits, and bountiful opportunities to connect with nature.