The Urban Arboretum
The Urban Arboretum, maintained by Amazon Horticulture, provides Amazonians and community members a connection to nature in the center of Seattle's urban core. As you walk through Amazon's Puget Sound headquarters, we invite you to experience this urban botanical garden, which reflects the diverse plant palette represented within The Spheres.
Playfield Walkway
The landscape along the exterior walkway separating The Spheres and Day 1 Playfield features many hardy plants that are related to those inside The Spheres, including begonias, bromeliads, and epiphytic ferns. These species hail from areas around the world, with a focus on species from Asia, South America, and Australia.
As you walk along this northern path, the large tree ferns (Dicksonia antarctica) make it feel as though you are transported back to the prehistoric era. These ferns live comfortably in Seattle’s cool, rainy climate, but are pampered in winter with special insulative blankets provided by our horticulturists.
What to see along the Playfield Walkway
A closer look at Dicksonia antarctica. The thick mass of roots forms the tree’s trunk, from which long, filigree-like fronds appear. This exotic plant can grow up to 10 feet tall when mature.
How many tree ferns do you count along the walkway?
Just past the walkway, you will find the entrance to The Understory, the learning space beneath The Spheres.
Ready for more? Use the map to collect your bearings and navigate to the next stop.
Up Next: East of The Spheres
Continue your tour of the Urban Arboretum
