DeHaan Tiergarten
The outdoor areas of White River Gardens are known collectively as the DeHaan Tiergarten. This 3.3-acre landmark botanical attraction combines the best of gardening ideas, plant information, art and inspirational design. Enjoy beautiful and colorful flowers, trees and shrubs, playful sculptures, fountains and more.
Learn more about some of the featured garden areas below.
Design Garden
Be inspired by the Polly Horton Hix Design Garden. Each themed garden “room” provides examples of design techniques to try in your outdoor space at home. Explore ideas such as form and texture, color, sculpture and whimsy, gardening in small spaces and use of native plants.
Knot Garden
Admire the intricate design and limestone features. Sculpted evergreen hedges of holly, barberry and yew form the geometric patterns. Seasonal plantings of cheerful spring tulips and brightly colored summer annuals add interest and variety, while bronze animal sculptures add a touch of whimsy. At the garden’s pinnacle is the 12-foot Earth Stone sculpture—the central feature of this outdoor landscape.
Border Garden
Take a stroll in this lovely brick-lined space. Nestled alongside the Design Garden, this glorious garden seclusion features low-canopy trees, vines and shrubs. Various perennial plants provide a tapestry of colors and textures. Plus, discover hidden artistic creations among the bricks in the wall.
Water Garden
Learn how water can enrich a landscape design. The Allen W. Clowes Water Garden is the highlight of the spring blooming season as the beauty of thousands of brightly colored tulips and other bulbs are reflected in the rippling waters of four pools. Children also love to play and splash in the spouts of the delightful “Spitting Frogs” water feature.
Shade Garden
Celebrate shade where perennials, trees and native wildflowers thrive. The Ruth Lilly Shade Garden provides a soothing canopy using different native Indiana woodland trees, including tulip poplar, Ohio buckeye, blue beech, bald cypress and shingle oak. In summer, find a shady spot to sit on a stone bench while you enjoy views of perennial plants including hostas, ferns, hellebores and more.
Heritage Garden
Discover plants from Indiana’s past in the Indianapolis Garden Club Heritage Garden. Here, you’ll find a mix of traditional species, such as purple coneflower and hollyhock, as well as more modern hybrids of “old-fashioned” plant varieties, such as shasta daisy and goldenrod. All of these native species have been part of Hoosier gardens and greenspaces for generations. Also included are some truly historic specimens, including some that were transplanted from sites such as the President Benjamin Harrison Home. Don’t miss the Four Seasons interactive stone sculptures!
Wedding Garden
Discover a picturesque setting that’s perfect for your outdoor ceremony or event at the Efroymson Wedding Garden. Bordered by a whimsical hedge maze, this lush 150-foot diameter lawn provides a beautiful backdrop filled with fragrant roses and ever-changing annual plantings, which makes it a favorite destination for exchanging vows in Indianapolis. Learn how you can host your wedding ceremony or reception in this gorgeous greenspace.