History of the Arboretum

Lynn Lowrey (1917-1997) was a well known Houston horticulturist and collector who has been described as the founder of the native plant movement in Texas. He believed Houston, due to its location, soil types, and climate is the land of opportunity for gardeners. Indeed, Lowrey’s mark on the landscape of Houston is readily apparent now, nearly 50 years after his arrival. Lowrey was best noted for the use of native Mexican and Texas plants in his landscapes.

On March 18, 1999, dedication ceremonies for the new Lynn R. Lowrey Arboretum on the campus of Rice University took place. Spearheaded by Charles Tapley, architect and landscape architect, and Patsy and Mike Anderson, Lowrey family members, the arboretum will feature native Texas trees and shrubs. Initial plantings included two white oaks, two fringe trees, and a swamp chestnut oak. In addition to serving as a living memorial to Lowrey, the arboretum will be used as an educational resource for Rice University.