The arboretum was established through a partnership between the City of Deerfield Beach and the Tree Park Committee.
The site operates as a certified botanical collection with a focus on 'unusual' trees that thrive in South Florida’s specific climate zone.
Many of the trees in the arboretum have been donated or memorialized by local residents.
The arboretum serves as a managed habitat for migrating butterfly species, particularly in the dedicated butterfly garden zone.
The site utilizes low-impact landscape management to maintain the health of rare tropical specimens.
The Deerfield Beach Arboretum, known as the 'Tree Zoo,' spans 9 acres and features over 200 species of trees and shrubs from around the world. The site is divided into distinct zones, including a butterfly garden, a palm garden, and a fruit orchard. Trails are largely paved or mulched, providing accessible navigation through diverse tropical and subtropical plant collections. It serves as an educational space focused on botanical research and conservation of non-native and rare tree specimens. Unlike typical recreational parks, the focus remains primarily on the identification and cataloging of specific plant life. Water features, such as ponds and small wooden bridges, are integrated into the landscaping to support local wildlife. Educational signage throughout the park provides botanical names and the geographical origins of the trees.
The wooden footbridge overlooking the butterfly garden area.
Apply insect repellent before entering, as the lush vegetation and water features attract mosquitoes.
Bring a water bottle, as there are limited facilities for purchasing drinks once inside.
Wear closed-toe shoes to navigate the mulched paths comfortably.
Attempting to climb trees or straying off the designated mulched trails into dense brush.
Stay on marked paths to protect the delicate root systems and plant labels.
