Opening Reception: This Living Landscape

South Florida’s agricultural history and the evolution of the Redlands landscape take focus during an exhibition opening at Fruit & Spice Park. The Opening Reception: This Living Landscape takes place Saturday, March 14, introducing a historical exhibition presented by the Deering Estate.

This Living Landscape explores the origins and development of the land that became Fruit & Spice Park, highlighting the agricultural traditions that shaped the Redlands region. The exhibition also examines the vision of Mary Heinlein, whose efforts helped establish the park as a place to showcase the diverse fruits and crops that thrive in South Florida’s tropical climate, with support from Preston B. Bird.

On view at Fruit & Spice Park from March 14 through May 22, the exhibition connects local agricultural heritage with the park’s role as a living botanical collection. The 37-acre garden is home to more than 500 varieties of fruits, vegetables, spices, herbs and nuts from around the world, making it the only tropical botanical garden of its kind in the continental United States.

Visitors attending the opening reception can explore the exhibition while discovering the park’s grounds, which are recognized internationally for plant conservation, research and education.