AUSTIN, TX — March 26, 2025 — The Zilker Botanical Garden Conservancy is proud to announce the arrival of a second Moon Tree, entrusted to the Garden’s care following Space Day at the Texas Capitol on Tuesday, March 25th. The Conservancy’s Executive Director, Holly Hawk, and Curator, Jeff Pavlat, participated in the ceremony, where they received the young loblolly pine sapling that will now join the Garden’s original Moon Tree in the Greenhouse.
The new Moon Tree will be cared for at Zilker Botanical Garden for two years until it is large enough to be planted at the Texas Capitol, where it will serve as a lasting symbol of exploration and discovery.
This newly acquired Moon Tree traveled an astonishing 1.4 million miles through space aboard Artemis I in 2022 before returning to Earth. This initiative honors a rich legacy that began over 50 years ago when seeds were first sent into lunar orbit aboard Apollo 14 as part of a program led by the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service. Since then, Moon Trees have been gifted to national monuments and landmarks across the world, serving as living symbols of exploration and scientific achievement.
Quote from the Executive Director, Holly Hawk
“It is with great pride and a deep sense of stewardship that the Zilker Botanical Garden accepts the responsibility of nurturing this extraordinary Moon Tree. We will ensure its healthy development, preparing it for its permanent home at the Texas State Capitol. This tree is a symbol of both scientific achievement and the enduring curiosity of the natural world around us and the worlds beyond us. These moon trees present a unique opportunity for the Zilker Botanical Garden to fulfill our mission to inspire and educate the community we serve.”
Both Moon Trees will remain in the Greenhouse under the Garden’s expert care until they are ready to be planted in their permanent locations. The new sapling will eventually find its home on the Texas Capitol grounds, while the Garden’s original Moon Tree will continue to thrive in its place at Zilker Botanical Garden.
Experience the Moon Trees Up Close
Members and visitors are invited to witness these remarkable pieces of history firsthand. Members of the Garden can view the Moon Trees during Coffee with the Curator, held every second Saturday at 8:30 AM. Additional opportunities to explore the Greenhouse and learn more about these unique trees will be announced soon.
For more information about upcoming events and public tours, visit https://zilkergarden.org/events/.
About Zilker Botanical Garden Conservancy:
The mission of the Zilker Botanical Garden Conservancy is to cultivate community and foster lifelong learning that inspires an appreciation of the botanical world. Through education, community engagement, and environmental stewardship, the Conservancy preserves the natural beauty and historical significance of Zilker Botanical Garden while encouraging connections between people and nature.
Contact:
Holly Hawk
Executive Director
Zilker Botanical Garden Conservancy
Director@zbgconservancy.org