Andersen Horticultural Library

The Andersen Horticultural Library is a unique and inviting destination open to the public. A reading and reference library specializing in horticulture, plant sciences and natural history, its rich collections include a trove of art in the form of vintage seed catalogs, botanical wall charts, 19th-century wildflower paintings and rare books of exquisite bird and flower images from the past 500 years. In addition to the reference collection, custom-built Nakashima furnishings make this space a welcoming retreat for reading and reflection.

Library Happenings

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Drawing of apples on a branch with leaves

  • Flora and Fauna Illustrata

    Jan. 31-April 20, 2025

    Delight in the world of botanical art during the 7th Annual Flora and Fauna Illustrata exhibit from the Andersen Horticultural Library. Get a glimpse into the process artists use to create exquisite, scientifically accurate representations of the plants and animals found at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. From aeonium to wisteria, experience nature through the eyes of the artist as they capture the beauty and detail of their chosen species.

    About the Project

    The Flora and Fauna Illustrata (FFI) is a joint Minnesota Landscape Arboretum-Andersen Horticultural Library (AHL) project. The mission is to build a collection of fine art depicting the plant and animal species that occur at the Arboretum. Artists contribute artwork that is juried into the collection. Learn more about the project on the library's website.

Library Coloring Pages

We’ve turned images from the Andersen Horticultural Library’s Flora & Fauna Illustrata (FFI), rare book and seed packet collections into coloring pages. Help us celebrate these wonderful collections by adding your own artistic touch.

Flora & Fauna Illustrata

The Andersen Horticultural Library is looking for artists to create scientifically accurate fine art for our Flora & Fauna Illustrata (FFI) collection. This “hundred-year project” aims to document all the plant and animal species that make the Arboretum their home. The library permanently archives the art and facilitates periodic FFI exhibitions. The collection provides a regional and national resource to aid research and serves to inspire learning, discovery, and enjoyment.