Nestled in Solebury Township in the shadow of Bowman’s Tower, the 135-acre botanical and nature preserve features hundreds of Pennsylvania native species, all growing in a natural setting with woodlands, meadows, and streams.
The Bucks County preserve was nominated by a panel of experts and voted by readers as one of “USA Today’s 10Best” in the U.S., according to the newspaper.
In ranking Bowman’s Hill, the paper called the preserve “one of the best places in Pennsylvania to purchase native plants” and an “incredible nursery,” which is home to more than 200 species, from herbaceous plants like butterfly weed and golden ragwort to trees like sweet birch and sycamores. “Pick up perennial wildflowers, shrubs, vines, and other native plants here to grow your perfect garden,” the paper said.
Wingard’s Market in Lexington, S.C., ranked as the top nursery in the nation, according to USA Today’s 10Best.
Others making the list are: Mulhalls in Omaha, Nebraska; City Farmers Nursery in San Diego; Twin Branch Nursery in Woodstock, Ga.; Tangletown Gardens in Minneapolis; Brady Nursery in Wichita, Kansas; Phelan Gardens in Colorado Springs; TLC Garden Centers in Oklahoma City; and American Plant, Bethesda, Maryland.
“Going to a great plant nursery or garden center is like stepping into a lush, green paradise — a world filled with vibrant blooms and thriving greenery,” writes the paper.
“At these 10 plant nurseries, you can explore a diverse array of plants, gather inspiration for your garden, and find the perfect additions to bring life to your space. Not to mention, they each have knowledgeable staff at the ready to help you pick the perfect items.”
Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve bills itself as “the premier place in the Delaware Valley to see and buy plants native to Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and throughout the Delaware Valley. Our marketplace features more than 200 species of high-quality native plants, including perennial wildflowers, ferns, trees, shrubs, and vines, available throughout the growing season,” says the preserve’s website.
The public is invited to explore the preserve’s grounds and see more than 700 native species thriving in their natural habitat. “While you shop, look for our ‘Piece of the Preserve’ seal, which identifies plants grown from our own collection. These plants have proven their ability to thrive in our local environment, ensuring you take home a truly resilient piece of our ecosystem.”
Located at 1635 River Road in Solebury Township, the preserve opens for the season on April 10, 11, and 12. Hours are 9 to 5 (last entry at 4 p.m.) Wednesday to Monday. The preserve is closed on Tuesday.