Guided Plant Walks
“The Ecology of a Single Tree,” a guided native plant walk led by Baton Rouge horticulturist Lee Rouse
Date: Sunday, May 3
Time: 3:30 – 5:00 p.m.
Location: LSU Hilltop Arboretum
Registration: $20 Hilltop Members/ $25 Public
The curated walk will focus on identifying native plant species throughout the arboretum while exploring their ecological value, seasonal interest, and practical application in residential landscapes. Using a single native tree as an interpretive framework, participants will examine how trees function as ecological anchors — supporting pollinators, birds, understory plants, and soil systems within a broader habitat network.
Participants will gain a deeper understanding of how Louisiana native plants contribute to regional biodiversity and create resilient, sustainable home landscapes.
Lee Rouse is a Baton Rouge-based horticulturist with over 20 years of commercial and
academic experience. He holds a Master’s degree in Plant and Soil Systems from Louisiana
State University and spent eight years teaching the Louisiana Master Gardener program
at the LSU AgCenter. A licensed arborist certified by the International Society of
Arboriculture, Rouse is widely recognized for delivering engaging, science-based presentations
tailored to South Louisiana gardeners. As President of the Louisiana State Horticulture
Society and a board member of the Louisiana Nursery and Landscape Association, Rouse
brings deep regional expertise and a strong commitment to sustainable horticultural
practices.
“Native plants are foundational to our regional ecosystems,” said Tara Titone, Director of LSU Hilltop Arboretum. “This guided experience reflects Hilltop’s role as a living laboratory, connecting horticulture, conservation, and practical landscape application.”
Designed for home gardeners, landscape professionals, and plant enthusiasts alike, “The Ecology of a Single Tree” will offer both scientific insight and practical strategies participants can implement in their own landscapes.
Space is limited; advance registration is encouraged.
Guided Plant Walk Details
The Ecology of a Single Tree
Sunday, May 3, 2026
3:30-5:00pm
$20 Hilltop Members/$25 Public
Questions?
Call 225.767.6916 or email.