Hollis Garden

Hollis Garden in Lakeland, Florida, is a horticultural haven nestled in the heart of the city. This stunning public botanical garden offers visitors an enchanting escape into a world of vibrant colors, fragrant blooms, and serene water features. Whether you're a plant enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Hollis Garden promises a delightful experience that will leave you captivated.

The Garden's Layout and Design

Hollis Garden is meticulously divided into 16 themed sections or rooms, each offering a unique horticultural experience. As you wander through the garden, you'll encounter a diverse array of plantings, with some areas showcasing lush vegetation and others featuring elegant architectural elements. The Gazebo and Trellis area, for instance, exudes a Tuscan charm with its neoclassical design, providing a picturesque backdrop for leisurely strolls.

Water features play a significant role in the garden's design, adding a soothing ambiance to the surroundings. The Grotto, a shady section adorned with tropical ferns and orchids, offers a cool respite on a warm day. Meanwhile, the Rosette Plaza and Fountain serve as a grand, central focal point, drawing visitors in with its open, inviting space. The Bowls and Runnels, a long gravity-fed fountain, guides water from the Rosette Fountain down to the tranquil shores of Lake Mirror. For a more secluded experience, the Lily Pond, surrounded by rustling bamboo, provides a serene setting where koi fish gracefully glide through the water.

Colorful and Themed Rooms

Each room within Hollis Garden is thoughtfully named and designed to evoke a specific theme or color palette. The Red, Yellow, and White Rooms, for instance, burst with vibrant hues, creating a visual feast for the eyes. The Vegetable Room, Tropical Room, and Herb Room showcase a variety of plant types, from edible vegetables to exotic tropical species and aromatic herbs. The Patterned Flowerbeds, meticulously arranged in intricate designs, add an artistic touch to the garden's landscape.

Historical and Botanical Heritage

Hollis Garden also pays homage to the botanical heritage of Florida and the United States through two special rooms: the Sustenance Orchard and Trees of Americana. The Sustenance Orchard features fruit-bearing trees, highlighting the importance of agriculture in Florida's history. The Trees of Americana room, on the other hand, showcases trees that are relatives of famous specimens from American history. Here, you'll find a Water Oak from Helen Keller's home, a Sycamore from Susan B. Anthony's grave, and an Oak from Abraham Lincoln's birthplace, among others. These trees serve as living reminders of the nation's rich and diverse heritage.

A Haven for Pollinators

Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the Butterfly Garden, a dedicated space designed to attract and support local pollinators such as butterflies, moths, and bees. This vibrant garden is a haven for these essential creatures, providing them with nectar-rich flowers and a safe habitat. As you explore this area, you'll likely encounter an array of colorful butterflies fluttering about, adding an extra layer of enchantment to your visit.

Labyrinthine Walkways and Surrounding Attractions

The rooms and areas within Hollis Garden are interconnected by labyrinthine walkways that meander through the garden, creating a sense of discovery and adventure. These pathways also link the garden to the surrounding Lake Mirror complex, a historic area that boasts a variety of attractions. The Frances Langford Promenade, built in the 1920s and dedicated to the local actress in 1946, offers a scenic promenade along the lake's edge. The Magnolia Building, originally the Lakeland Community Center, is a formal event space that adds to the area's charm. Nearby, the Garden Bistro provides a cozy spot to enjoy a meal with a view of the lake.

A Rich History and Philanthropic Legacy

The history of Hollis Garden is deeply intertwined with the development of Lakeland's Lake Mirror Promenade. Designed by Charles Wellford Leavitt, a student of the renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, the promenade was part of the City Beautiful movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Although the original plans for a large garden had to be scaled back due to Florida's economic crash in 1926, the vision was finally realized in 2000 thanks to the generosity of the Hollis family.

Lynn and Mark Hollis, through their philanthropic efforts, donated one million dollars to the City of Lakeland to complete the garden, along with a perpetual care fund to ensure its ongoing maintenance. The garden's neoclassical design was inspired by the Hollis family's travels, particularly a trip to New Zealand. The formal dedication ceremony in December 2000 marked the culmination of years of planning and community support.

Today, Hollis Garden stands as a testament to the beauty of nature, the importance of community, and the enduring legacy of the Hollis family's generosity. Whether you're exploring its themed rooms, admiring its water features, or simply taking in the serene atmosphere, Hollis Garden offers a truly enchanting experience that will leave you with lasting memories.