Coniferous Identification

You may have noticed the towering giant that is Abies pinsapo ‘Glauca’ while strolling through the Old Pinetum (U-OP137). This tree, also known as the blue Spanish fir, can reach a height of nearly 60 feet at maturity. Our specimen here at Bayard Cutting Arboretum stands at an impressive 58 feet tall with a circumference of 134 inches. Traditionally known for its conical habit, our Abies stands out for its unique double leader, giving it the illusion of “twin” trees. The exact planting date of this specimen is not known, but we can approximate that it was planted around 1910 when a massive planting of trees was carried out in the Old Pinetum.

(1930s) Approximate height of 33 ft 

(2026) Approximate height of 58 ft

When I first started at the Arboretum as an intern in 2018, I couldn’t help but be in awe of the sheer size of the mature trees in the Old Pinetum. These specimens have a way of transporting you to a different time and place, far away from the everyday bustle of Long Island. Large historic trees like the Arboretum’s Abies pinsapo ‘Glauca’ are a testament to the resiliency of plants in the natural world and the importance of preserving these integral landscape features for future generations to enjoy. 

There is a wide variety of conifers in the Arboretum’s collection, each having their own unique identification qualities. Abies pinsapo ‘Glauca’ can be identified by its bluish/green, upright, short needles that radiate around the branches. A key feature of the genus Abies are cones that stand upright on the branches, differentiating them from other genera such as Picea or spruce, whose cones hang below the branch.

If you are interested in learning more about coniferous tree identification, please join me on Saturday April 4th at 10am for an introductory tree ID class. We will explore different identification features of some prominent coniferous trees in the Arboretum’s collection.

Jenna Zier, Formal Garden Curator

Nature's Reminder

We are truly sorry to announce the cancellation of the Bayard Cutting Arboretum’s 8th Annual Symposium, "Evolution of the American Landscape: Making the Coastal Connection," which was set for February 23, 2026. For the past eight years, this event has united our community in understanding the crucial role that trees play in shaping our landscapes. This year, we were eager to tackle the pressing challenges our coastal environments face. Experts were ready to share insights on plant selection, design, and the significance of coastal habitats amid climate change. 

Unfortunately, the recent blizzard has left us blanketed in an unprecedented 31 inches of snow, making it impossible for us to carry on as planned. This extraordinary weather event emphasizes the unpredictable nature of climate change and its effects on our coastal communities. Clean-up efforts have consumed us all week and we have witnessed significant tree damage in the aftermath. As we navigate the impact of this blizzard, we recognize that the themes of our symposium are more relevant than ever.

We want to express our sincere gratitude to our sponsors, whose invaluable support makes these educational gatherings possible. A special thank you goes to the Bayard Cutting Arboretum Horticultural Society for their dedicated assistance in organizing this event over the past six months. To everyone who registered, we genuinely appreciate your interest and understanding during this time. We were looking forward to connecting with all of you who are integral to our community. Our planning committee shares in the disappointment of this cancellation.

Looking ahead, we are excited about upcoming educational programming and planning more events concerning our coastal landscape. Our dedicated speakers have kindly agreed to revisit this significant topic at a further date. Thank you once again for your support and for being an essential part of our community. We look forward to continuing our work together and providing enriching resources and knowledge for all.

Joy Arden, Landscape Curator

All around the world people celebrate Arbor Day by planting trees, visiting local parks, and enjoying other tree related festivities.

What better way to commemorate the day than with a visit to Bayard Cutting Arboretum?

Date and Time:

Saturday, April 25 @ 10AM to 1PM

Activities

Activities are free of charge and family friendly.

If You Give a Tree a Cookie

Presented by the BCA Education Team

Discover the age of trees in this arts and crafts activity.

Bring Home a Sapling

Donated by Bartlett Tree Experts

Choose from a selection of saplings to grow at home.

Your Name as a Forest

Presented by Carol Isles

Crack a secret code and take home your name written with trees.

Presentations

Space is limited in presentations and pre-registration is required.

It's NOT a Pine!

Presented by Carol Isles

10:30AM Start Time

Learn the difference between common conifers in this children's guessing game. Ages 7-12.

Registration Required

How to Kill a Tree

Presented by Bartlett Tree Experts

12PM Start Time

Learn what to do and what not to do when planting trees at home. Ages 18+.

Registration Required

Note: $8 Vehicle Parking Fee in effect, some exclusions apply.

A Red Tailed Hawk flying over the Main Drive.

Chase Callahan, Horticulturist

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. We’ll slow down, wander, and notice what most of the world simply walks past; the beauty of nature in any season. We’ll do some grounding, connect with the trees and water, and even create some nature art together.

Saturdays

Fee: $45 per person.

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

Find More Educational Programs on our Website!

Discover more information and programming on our website. Contact K.T. Williamson, our education coordinator, for additional information. KT.Williamson@parks.ny.gov

Children and Family Programs

Adult Workshops

Follow Us on Socials!