This August, Scott Arboretum & Gardens created its latest ephemeral environmental art piece, Little Princess! Horticulturist Josh Coceano and Arboretum interns painted a lifeless tree an efflorescent pink to encourage reflection on the fragility of trees and to inspire people to notice the landscape, rather than take it for granted.

This Chionanthus retusus (Chinese fringe tree) was an older specimen that had been in decline and was ultimately lost earlier this summer. It is the fourth tree that Scott Arboretum & Gardens has transformed in this way, using striking color to draw the community’s attention to the ever-changing landscapes in a beautiful and meaningful way. The bold pink gives new “life” to the dead tree, honoring its presence and history while prompting reflection on impermanence and renewal. 

Delightfully named Little Princess, the ephemeral art piece will be on display until natural decay claims the tree. Come visit our princess in all seasons as she makes a charming and thought-provoking statement adjacent to the Dean Bond Rose Garden. 

Learn more about how this ephemeral art will age in the landscape with the story of our 2016 ephemeral art installation, Tsuga canadensis Pendula Purpurea. Check out this great recap of ephemeral art installations at the Scott Arboretum & Gardens with this 2021 Hybrid article (page 6.)