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

The American Rhododendron Society’s Southeastern Chapter kicks the month off on May 2 and May 3 at the Arboretum during its annual show. 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. Trail Walks to the National Native Azalea Repository – a popular destination amid the Arboretum’s 434 acres – will be offered.

On May 9 and May 12, the Carolinas Dahlia Society and the NC Chrysanthemum Society celebrate the season with their Spring Dahlia Tuber Sale and Chrysanthemum Cutting Sale. Just in time for Mother’s Day, the event will be held at the Education Center Auditorium on May 9 and at the Baker Exhibit Center Lobby on May 12.

The fragrant and vivid world of roses will be on display on May 30 and 31 as The Asheville Blue Ridge Rose Society hold its annual exhibit 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 ($6 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.