University of Michigan (Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum, University of Michigan)

The Peony Garden in the University of Michigan Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum is the largest collection of antique and heirloom peonies in North America, making the garden an important resource for peony enthusiasts and experts. In this project, the University of Michigan will begin the “Peony Initiative,” itself part of a larger Peony Conservation Initiative formally recognized by the North American Plant Collection Collaborative of the American Public Garden Association. The project will create an in-depth and authoritative Web site, including a rich set of authenticated pictures accompanying data related to specific peony selections as well as a range of information and links. Users will be able to find—in one place—a range of information and links now widely scattered across the Web.