The Bard's Botanical Legacy: Why CU Boulder's Shakespeare Garden is More Than Just a Pretty Plot
There’s something undeniably enchanting about stumbling upon a garden that feels like it’s been plucked straight from the pages of a 400-year-old play. That’s exactly what you’ll find at the University of Colorado Boulder’s Shakespeare Garden—one of only 34 official Shakespeare Gardens in the world. But this isn’t just a collection of plants; it’s a living, breathing tribute to the Bard’s genius, a place where literature and nature intertwine in the most unexpected ways.
A Garden That Tells a Story
What makes this garden particularly fascinating is its purpose. Every herb, flower, and tree here was chosen because Shakespeare mentioned it in his works. Roses, lilies, chamomile, thyme, rosemary, rue—each plant is a character in its own right, playing a role in the larger narrative of Shakespeare’s plays. Personally, I think this is where the garden’s magic lies. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about storytelling. As Deborah Broaddus, a volunteer who’s tended the garden for over 30 years, puts it, Shakespeare was a master at weaving the natural world into the human experience. This garden is a physical manifestation of that talent.
One detail that I find especially interesting is the inclusion of the White Rose of York, a showpiece that once stood eight feet tall before being relocated. It’s a symbol of history, resilience, and the passage of time—themes Shakespeare himself explored endlessly. What this really suggests is that the garden isn’t just a tribute to the playwright; it’s a living metaphor for the enduring power of his words.
A Labor of Love in an Unlikely Climate
Here’s where things get even more intriguing: many of the plants in the garden are native to England, not Colorado’s arid climate. Yet, the volunteers have managed to cultivate them, including a 20-year-old samphire plant from King Lear that typically grows on sea cliffs. This raises a deeper question: what does it take to preserve something so deeply rooted in one culture within the context of another? In my opinion, it’s a testament to human dedication and the universal appeal of Shakespeare’s work.
Monica VanZale, a volunteer since 1995, describes the garden as a sanctuary of calm amidst the bustle of campus life. What many people don’t realize is that this sense of peace isn’t accidental. It’s the result of decades of careful curation, research, and hard work. Every spring, volunteers gather to study the plays featured in the summer festival, ensuring the garden reflects the themes and flora of that year’s performances.
A Bridge Between Worlds
If you take a step back and think about it, the garden is more than a botanical collection—it’s a cultural bridge. Founded in 1991 by Marlene Cowdery after a visit to Stratford-upon-Avon, it connects Boulder to Shakespeare’s England, blending the past with the present. It’s also a community hub, a place where people can sit with a sandwich before a play, or simply find a moment of tranquility.
What makes this particularly fascinating is how the garden transcends its physical space. Thanks to a virtual tour narrated by the late Chuck Wilcox, a longtime figure of the Colorado Shakespeare Festival, anyone can experience it, no matter where they are in the world. This digital extension feels like a natural evolution, a way to share the garden’s story with a global audience.
Why This Matters
In a world where attention spans are shrinking and digital distractions abound, the Shakespeare Garden feels like a quiet rebellion. It’s a reminder of the enduring power of literature, the importance of preserving cultural heritage, and the simple joy of connecting with nature. From my perspective, it’s also a celebration of community—of volunteers like Broaddus, VanZale, and Carol Mellinger, who’ve dedicated years to keeping this space alive.
One thing that immediately stands out is how the garden challenges our assumptions about what a tribute can be. It’s not a statue or a plaque; it’s a living, evolving entity that requires care, knowledge, and passion. This raises a deeper question: how do we honor the greats in ways that are dynamic and participatory? The Shakespeare Garden offers a compelling answer.
A Thoughtful Takeaway
As I reflect on this garden, I’m struck by its ability to inspire across disciplines. It’s a haven for literature lovers, a challenge for botanists, and a peaceful retreat for anyone seeking a moment of calm. What this really suggests is that Shakespeare’s legacy isn’t confined to the stage or the page—it’s everywhere, even in the soil of a Colorado courtyard.
Personally, I think the garden’s greatest achievement is its ability to make Shakespeare feel accessible, tangible, and relevant. It’s a reminder that art, in all its forms, has the power to transcend time and place. So, the next time you’re in Boulder, take a moment to visit this hidden gem. Or, if you’re far away, explore the virtual tour. Either way, you’ll walk away with a newfound appreciation for the Bard—and the people who keep his spirit alive, one plant at a time.
