The Trees of Martin House

Many of you may have admired the original European Copper Beech tree that resides on Jewett Parkway. However, did you know there are 21 different types of trees for a total of 52 on the estate?

Let’s talk trees.

There are 17 elm trees in two varieties, both of which have good levels of disease tolerance (86-96% Dutch elm disease-resistant rate). The first of these is the New Harmony American Elm. It has an upright, broad vase-shaped trunk with an arching form. The second is a Princeton Elm. It also grows in a vase-shape, arching form with its dark green leaves turning yellow in fall. Whenever you are on site, see if you can locate these two different types of elm trees.

Other trees found on site are Paperbark Maples, Honey Locust, White Oak, Autumn Gold Ginkgo, Golden Rain, Kousa Dogwood, Appalachian Spring Flowering Dogwood, Apple Serviceberry, Yellowwood, Eastern Redbud and Hedge Maple trees.

Aside from deciduous trees, there are also various coniferous trees. These include the Eastern Hemlock near the porte cochere, two Swiss Stone Pines north of the copper beach tree and to the west of the Barton House verandah, and the Emerald Sentinel Cedar to the north of the fern bed.

Japanese Inspiration in the Landscape

Frank Lloyd Wright was outspoken about his admiration for Japan and how the country inspired him. This Japanese inspiration extended to the trees found in the landscape which are native to Japan.

• In the Gardener’s Cottage front yard you will find is a Fernleaf Full-Moon Maple. During the summer months it graces us with dark green leaves that turn a rich ruby-crimson color in the autumn.
• Discover an Atropurpureum Japanese Maple at the entrance to the floricycle, the semi-circular garden area that surrounds the Martin House verandah. It has bushy rich purple leaves in the spring that become deeper in the summer and turn brilliant scarlet in the fall.
• Walking to the front of the Barton House, you will find a Japanese Tree Lilac on the left and a beautiful Bloodgood Japanese Maple to the right. The Japanese tree lilac produces large clusters of small creamy-white, fragrant flowers in the spring. The Bloodgood foliage has a distinctive burgundy red coloring that turns brilliant scarlet in the fall.

Exploring the Site

The Martin House grounds are always open, and we encourage you to spend time exploring the landscape. Below is a map of all the trees that provide the Martin House with vibrant colors and unique views throughout the four seasons.