The Arboretum Fund supports Hofstra University's stunning 244-acre campus, which was officially recognized as an Arboretum in 1985. Proudly ranked among only 430 arboreta in the United States, Hofstra is a member of the prestigious American Public Gardens Association. Today, the Arboretum is home to over 12,000 trees—both evergreen and deciduous—representing 625 species and varieties, with new additions enhancing the collection every year.
The Arboretum thrives thanks to the generosity of donors, special fundraising events, and grants from the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation.
Highlights of the Arboretum include:
- The Pinetum: Featuring more than 15 genera of conifers, including mature specimens of Dawn Redwood, Bald Cypress, Weeping Sargent's Hemlock, and Japanese Umbrella Pine, this collection—affectionately referred to as "Narnia" by our students—provides year-round beauty and inspiration.
- A Historic Japanese Katsura Tree: This majestic tree, predating Hofstra University, is the largest of its kind on Long Island and a true gem of our campus.
- The Bird Sanctuary: Originally built in the footprint of a New York State Department of Transportation recharge basin, the Bird Sanctuary provides vital food and habitat for birds and other wildlife on campus. Constructed in the early 1990s, this project was a pilot for similar initiatives across Long Island. Today, it serves as a living laboratory for multiple academic departments, enriching student learning and fostering environmental stewardship.
Your support of the Arboretum Fund helps preserve this cherished campus resource and ensures it continues to thrive as a sanctuary for learning, beauty, and biodiversity.
