Clary Gardens has new exhibit dedicated to butterflies
With the construction of The Vivarium at Clary, the gardens will expand its offerings, introducing a living exhibit dedicated to butterflies.
Submitted
For years Clary Gardens has been a haven for plant lovers, families and visitors seeking the solace and inspiration only nature can provide. Now, with the construction of The Vivarium at Clary, the gardens will expand its offerings, introducing a living exhibit dedicated to butterflies.
The Vivarium at Clary will be more than just an enclosure — it will serve as an ecosystem designed to mimic the habitats where butterflies thrive. Visitors will be able to step inside an environment filled with nectar-rich flowers, host plants and dozens of butterflies.
Purpose and vision
The primary goals of this initiative include the following:
—Conservation: Supporting local and global butterfly populations through habitat creation, breeding programs and public awareness.
—Education: Offering hands-on learning experiences for students, families and visitors of all ages about the role butterflies play in pollination and ecosystem health.
—Inspiration: Providing a tranquil environment where guests can witness the wonder of metamorphosis firsthand and gain a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
—Community Engagement: Serving as a resource for local gardeners, educators and citizen scientists interested in supporting pollinators and sustainable practices.
Educational programs and community outreach
A cornerstone of The Vivarium at Clary initiative is its educational programming. Clary Gardens is developing a suite of offerings tailored for schools, families, nature clubs and the general public:
—Guided tours: Expert naturalists will lead visitors through the butterfly house, sharing insights into butterfly behavior, adaptation and the challenges facing pollinators today.
—Workshops and classes: Seasonal workshops will teach guests how to create their own butterfly gardens, identify local species and contribute to citizen science projects.
—School field trips: Customized field trips will align with state science standards, providing hands-on activities and immersive learning for students of all ages.
—Butterfly releases: Special events will invite participants to witness the moment when butterflies take their first flight, reinforcing lessons about metamorphosis and conservation.
—Volunteer opportunities: The Vivarium at Clary will offer a range of volunteer positions, inviting community members to help with planting, maintenance, educational programs and butterfly care.
Conservation impact
Butterflies are more than beautiful; they are essential pollinators whose populations are under threat from habitat loss, pesticides and climate change. The Vivarium at Clary is designed to address these challenges by:
—Maintaining breeding colonies of at-risk species and participating in regional conservation initiatives.
—Educating the public about the importance of pollinator-friendly gardening and sustainable landscapes.
—Collaborating with local schools, universities and conservation organizations to conduct research and promote best practices.
Partnerships and support
The success of The Vivarium at Clary depends on the generosity and passion of the community. Future partners are invited to join in this effort through sponsorships, donations and in-kind contributions.
Timeline and grand opening
Construction on The Vivarium at Clary was completed the week of Aug. 4, with an anticipated grand opening scheduled for next year’s spring season. This fall will serve as a soft opening time period, with limited public hours and a monarch celebration.
Updates on construction progress and event details will be shared regularly via Clary Gardens’ social media pages.
About Clary Gardens
Clary Gardens is a nonprofit public garden dedicated to horticultural excellence, environmental stewardship and community engagement. Spanning nearly 20 acres, the gardens offer an ever-changing tapestry of blooms, woodland trails, artistic installations and educational facilities, welcoming tens of thousands of visitors annually.
To learn more about The Vivarium at Clary and how to support its mission, email Clary Gardens' Jodi Morrison at plantingseeds@clarygardens.org or visit www.clarygardens.org.
