Lynn R. Lowrey (1917-1997. Biography) was a well-known Houston horticulturist and collector who has been described as the founder of the native plant movement in Texas. He believed Houston–due to its location, soil types, and climate–was the land of opportunity for gardeners. Lowrey was especially known for his promotion of native Mexican and Texan plants for local landscapes. Indeed, Lowrey’s mark on the landscape of Houston is readily apparent now, nearly 50 years after his arrival.
The new Lynn R. Lowrey Arboretum was dedicated on March 18, 1999 with an on-campus ceremony. Spearheaded by Charles Tapley, architect and landscape architect, and Patsy and Mike Anderson, Lowrey family members, the Arboretum features native Texan trees and shrubs. Initial plantings included two white oaks, two fringe trees, and a swamp chestnut oak. Unlike other arboreta with a clearly delineated space, the Lynn R. Lowrey Arboretum encompasses the entirety of campus, even the live oaks of the outer loop! The Arboretum Committee maintains the Arboretum and includes Rice faculty, staff, a graduate student representative, and selected members of the community.
In addition to serving as a living, growing memorial to Lowrey, the Arboretum is used as an educational resource for Rice University. The Lynn R. Lowrey Arboretum is a member of the American Association of Botanical Gardens and Arboreta.