University Center

Indoor Garden

The University Center hosts an expansive indoor garden located in the Atrium. The Atrium garden is comprised of a diverse blend of tropical, sub-tropical, and temperate plant species. Walking into the UC's atrium - especially in the wintertime - transports visitors to the pleasant surroundings of a tropical garden. The addition of running water in the form of a bubbling brook provides a sense of serenity felt by all who frequent the building.

Head Gardener Anna and members of Missoula Plant Exchange move a huge plant on a cart

Garden student water plants from a staircase

Student gardener shows off some fresh picked raspberries

Outdoor Garden

The outdoor gardens are comprised of perennial plants, medicinal plants, drought-tolerant plants, vegetables, herbs, and plants that attract pollinators and beneficial insects. These gardens are used by many departments on campus for educational purposes through plant tours, offered by the gardening staff. Edible plants and flowers are used by UM Dining and Catering Services. In addition, excess vegetables grown in our gardens are donated to the Poverello Center and the Missoula Food Bank

Gardens Education

The UC Gardens are intended to enhance a safe, educational, and beautiful experience without adverse effects for the surrounding natural environment. The UC Gardens inside and around the building have been designed for beauty, education, and public interest. The gardens serve as a living laboratory and resource for classes, internships and independent studies. Montana artists and students use the gardens to display their work. In addition, University Catering guests consume fresh in-season vegetables and herbs straight from the outdoor gardens while local agencies benefit from the excess harvest.

History of the Gardens

Between 1971 and 1972, new plants from more tropical climates were planted. Many of the tropical plants, including primitive Cycads, the banana-like Heliconia (Lobster Claw), and the South African Strelitzia Nicolai (Giant Bird of Paradise), were donated to the UC by the University of Texas. They also donated the now three-story-tall Ficus lyrata (Fiddle-leaf fig tree). The tree was planted in 1972 when it stood only 8 feet tall.