Rock Garden

What is a rock garden?

A rock garden is a garden or part of a garden that uses rocks, stones and gravel as a landscaping framework and includes plants that are suitable for that setting. Rock garden plants are typically drought-resistant, have a compact growth habit, and prefer good drainage.

Types of rock gardens at Franklin Park Zoo

Heaths and Heathers
Heath and Heathers are shrubs in the heath family that are native to the moors, mountains and woods of Europe, Africa, and western Asia.

Miniature and Specimen
Rock garden plants

Alpine Garden
Celebrates plants that are typically found in mountainous regions globally

New England Flora
Highlights plants native to New England mountains and rocky areas

North American Flora
Highlights plants native to North American mountains and rocky areas

Asian Flora
Highlights plants native to mountainous regions of Asia

Conifer Garden
Features cone-bearing specimen rock garden plants

Herb Garden
Celebrates herbs found across the globe that are suitable for gardens that may also provide novelty food for our animals

Experimental Garden
A space for trying new methods and practices in rock gardening as well as invasive plant removal

Native Hillside Demonstration Garden
Showcases the use of native plants for steep slopes and hillsides