Heathcote Botanical Gardens: A Tropical Oasis in Fort Pierce Saved from Bulldozers

Nestled in Fort Pierce, Florida, Heathcote Botanical Gardens offers a vibrant and ever-changing landscape filled with stunning flowers, bonsai trees, and lush greenery. This serene oasis is more than just a garden—it’s a “living museum” where visitors experience something new with each visit.

A Garden That Gives Back

Beyond its visual splendor, Heathcote Botanical Gardens plays a vital role in the local community. Last year, the garden donated over 150 pounds of fresh produce to church charities, thanks to the hard work of dedicated volunteers tending its vegetable garden. The garden’s commitment to sustainability and giving back makes it a cherished space in the community.

A Rich History of Preservation

Heathcote Botanical Gardens traces its roots back to a small nursery on Heathcote Street in Scarsdale, New York. In 1960, its owners relocated to Florida, and the site eventually transformed into the flourishing botanical haven it is today. The garden’s survival was made possible by passionate locals who fought to protect the space from development. One of its most influential advocates, Gloria Moore, is remembered as the “founding mother” of Heathcote. In a dramatic moment of preservation, Moore once ran out of her house in curlers and slippers, physically blocking bulldozers from destroying the land. Thanks to her determination, the five-acre garden remains a treasured green space in Fort Pierce.

Home to the Largest Public Bonsai Collection

One of Heathcote’s most unique features is its impressive bonsai collection, the largest public display of its kind in the United States. Some of these miniature trees are nearly a century old, and experts recognize the garden’s portulacaria bonsai as one of the finest in the world. Several of Heathcote’s prized bonsai specimens are showcased at Epcot’s International Flower and Garden Festival. Bonsai specialist Tom Kehoe shares a deep connection with these trees, likening them to old friends he has known for over two decades. “You become attached to them,” he says. “They become like old friends, almost like children.”

A Place for Everyone

Heathcote Botanical Gardens offers a peaceful retreat where visitors of all ages can connect with nature. Whether admiring the tranquil Japanese garden, learning about exotic plants, or simply enjoying a quiet stroll, the gardens provide relaxation and inspiration. “There is something for everyone,” says Kehoe. “Walk through and feel the healing powers of a botanical setting.” For those seeking beauty, history, and serenity, Heathcote Botanical Gardens is a must-visit destination in Fort Pierce.