Mead Botanical Garden

Winter Park, Florida, United States

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Mead Botanical Garden in Winter Park, Florida, was dedicated in 1940 as a tribute to horticulturist Theodore L. Mead and originally spanned about 50 acres of upland hammocks and wetlands with streams, lakes, and ponds.

The garden was envisioned by Edwin Grover, a Rollins College professor and philanthropist, who wanted to honor Mead's contributions by creating a lush natural habitat featuring azaleas, caladiums, native plants, and tropical species. Major development was funded in part by a Works Progress Administration grant, which deepened Howell Creek to create trails and planted many of the garden’s signature flowers.

Over the years, the garden faced periods of decline but was revitalized through community involvement, transforming into a space with boardwalks, an amphitheater, butterfly garden, and outdoor educational programs. Today, Mead Botanical Garden serves as a peaceful urban oasis promoting environmental awareness and botanical research, preserving Florida’s natural heritage while offering scenic landscapes for visitors to explore.​