Did you know that Hollywood Cemetery is a registered arboretum? The paths of this historic and active cemetery, located in Oregon Hill, weave through 135 acres of seasonal flora and fauna.

We stopped by to give you a glimpse at some of the cemetery’s most prominent spring blooms — from magnificent magnolias to beloved + timely cherry blossoms.

Camellias

Keep your eyes peeled for leafy bushes bearing the reddish-pink blooms of camellias, which typically flower in late winter and early spring.

This Camellia bush was found just off the side of the drive. | Photo by RICtoday

Cherry blossoms

Head to Presidents Circle for an ornate display of cherry blossoms circling President James Monroe’s gothic-style tomb.

While you’re there, look around + see what blooms you can spot from this hilltop view of the James River and city skyline.

Cherry blossoms only bloom for about two weeks, so make some time to stop by and catch their beauty. | Photo by RICtoday

Daffodils

Spot colorful daffodils in warm or white tones, rising from the ground near gravestones + alongside the road.

Dogwoods

Our state tree and state flower — the delicate white and pink blooms of dogwood trees can typically be seen on smaller trees that branch horizontally.

Forsythias

These stark-yellow bushels don’t bloom for long, but they add an uplifting vibrancy to the spring scenery, letting us know that the cold days of winter are behind us.

Look for the bright yellow blooms of the Forsythia bush as an ode to spring. | Photo by RICtoday

Magnolias

Branches of waxy, pink blooms tower over cemetery spots like protective arms. These full trees boast a long lineage + are easy to notice while taking a slow drive through the cemetery.

Follow this Magnolia-tunneled drive, and you'll see the Palmer Chapel Mausoleum + a breathtaking view of the James. | Photo by RICtoday.

While we featured some highlights, Hollywood Cemetery has so much more to discover. Notice a spring bloom that we didn’t mention this time around? Grab a picture or write a note, and send it our way.

For a self-guided tour, check out the cemetery’s Natural Treasure Guides, which detail all the trees, geological features, and birds that enchant this nearly 200-year-old cemetery.