To increase the appreciation of the unique flora of Hawai`i and the tropics by conserving, curating, and studying plants and their habitats; providing inclusive educational opportunities; encouraging use by the broader community; and supporting the educational, scientific, and service activities of the University of Hawai`i.

Description:
The Arboretum is a 193.5 acre botanical garden located deep in Manoa Valley. Its rich cultural and natural resources provide a unique outdoor teaching environment. The Lyon Arboretum is administered by the University of Hawai`i, and is utilized to help fulfill the University's Mission of Education, Research and Community Service. The Arboretum's living collection of approximately 5,000 species includes native Hawaiian plants, Polynesian introductions and collections of plants from tropical areas all over the world.

History:
The Arboretum was established in 1918 by the Hawai`i Sugar Planters Association (HSPA) to serve as a test site to evaluate trees for reforestation in heavily altered watersheds. In 1953 HSPA gave the deed to the University of Hawai`i "...to use, maintain and preserve the granted premises as an arboretum and botanical garden only." The University continues to administer the site as a botanical garden and plant conservation research site, provides guided tours, informal education classes for adults and children, K-12 curriculum and school field trips for thousands of Hawaii's children.

Contact person: Jill Laughlin, Education Programs And Volunteer Coordinator, (phone), (email)
Office fax number: (808) 988-0462

Address:

3860 Manoa Road Honolulu, HI 96822 (See a map)

Web Site: http://www.hawaii.edu/lyonarboretum

Directions:

Take the University Ave. exit on H1. Drive mauka (towards the mountains), pass the University and continue up the valley. At the Intersection of Oahu Ave.,and University Ave, take Oahu Ave. (middle fork) and continue up the. . . (more)   Nearest Bus Stop: Nipo Street , 20 minute walk