A History of New Beginnings: Letter from the Director

In 1903, the great plant explorer E.H. Wilson observed a unique species of fir tree during a plant expedition to Western China. This was followed by another expedition, in which propagules of the tree were collected for the Arnold Arboretum. In 1916, the Arnold Arboretum gifted this tree to the Cutting family. Soon after it was planted at Westbrook. The tree, Abies recurvata (the Min fir), is one of the oldest accessioned trees at Bayard Cutting Arboretum and still stands proudly in the Old Pinetum (1916-OP43). Not only do we have documentation from the Arnold Arboretum confirming this, but we have a tree inventory from 1920 documenting its’ height at two feet and six inches tall. In 2022, the tree was noted as the largest of the species in our region.

Wilson wrote that this species is “one of the most desirable of the family and was well worth a long journey to introduce it to cultivation”. Abies recurvata is named for its recurved needles, appearing to bend in one direction unlike other species. This is most evident in new growth in the canopy of the tree. The species has proven to tolerate maritime climates with greater heat and drought tolerance than other firs from this region. However, it remains a collector’s tree, and it is rarely seen outside of historic landscapes and public gardens. Wilson described an entire forest of this species but unfortunately logging of the tree in the Min Valley has placed it on the Red List of Threatened Trees.

 Abies recurvata (Min fir) Needles

Abies homolepis (Nikko Fir) Needles

Our Min fir is an example of one of the many significant tree introductions at Bayard Cutting Arboretum holding immeasurable value to horticulture, history, and conservation. It is one of the trees that began what is now the Old Pinetum and it is indicative of the type of planting we do on a regular basis. We strive to source unique individual specimen trees that will fit into the larger planting scheme of each collection.

The placement of our Min fir was brilliant (pictured right). In a letter from 1920, Charles Sprague Sargent, the first Director of the Arnold Arboretum, advised Olivia James, daughter of William Bayard Cutting, on the placement of the firs that were planted during this period. Sargent writes that these “conifers have only been in cultivation for a few years. It is impossible to form even an idea of the size to which they will grow in this country”. The significance of the decisions that were made during this time becomes apparent whenever I walk the Old Pinetum. The tree sourcing and placement of that era really determined everything that would happen in this landscape for years to come. The giant fir trees, including the Min fir, speak to each other and define the Old Pinetum. It makes clear the intentionality behind all our plantings and the importance of each individual tree.

The new year brings us a new beginning. Many trees, including firs, are currently being sourced to plant throughout the Arboretum. New Nordmann firs and a rare fastigiate silver fir will be planted in the Pineta. The Bayard Cutting Arboretum team is proud to continue the stewardship of Westbrook, preserving our “oasis of beauty and quiet” and growing the Arboretum into the future. In addition to new horticulture, 2025 promises shoreline restoration, expanded educational programming, and restoration work in the Manor House and Upper Carriage House. We are looking forward to sharing this with all of you.

I want to thank everyone reading this for their continued support and patronage and wish you a Happy, Healthy, and Coniferous New Year!

Kevin Wiecks

Director

Bayard Cutting Arboretum

Holiday Cheer with the BCA Staff!

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Evolution of the American Landscape:

The Secrets of Old Growth Trees

Our 7th Annual Horticultural Symposium will explore the important lessons that old growth and historic trees teach us. Topics will focus on preservation and conservation efforts.

Speaker Information and Registration Here!

MLK Food Drive

Share to care! Food drive efforts at Bayard Cutting Arboretum

In celebration of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. we at Bayard Cutting Arboretum are joining in the statewide food drive. Non-perishable food items collected will be donated to Island Harvest Food Bank to provide a helping hand to Long Islanders in need. We will begin accepting donations on January 2 through February 18. Collection locations will be at the Manor House and Visitor Center entrances. 

Hidden Oak Cafe Winter Hours

Open Thursdays - Sundays for the month of January.

Closed January 27 - March 1st.

Forest Bathing Walk

Join certified forest therapy guide, Linda Lombardo of Wild Heart Nature Connection, on a walk to reconnect with the natural world around us.

Fee: $40 per person.

Please wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and warm clothing for walking outdoors. Register here!