The Margaret Reid Wildflower Garden

By Kevin Brice

Among the natural areas protected by TLC, there is a unique wildlife refuge in the heart of Raleigh. At a location where you would not expect to find any wildlife, not far from Raleigh's beltline, N.C. State University and Meredith College, there is a haven for many of the Piedmont's native plants. From the mid-1940's until her death in 1995, Margaret Reid created an exceptional wildflower garden containing more than 400 species of plants.

What makes the Reid Wildflower Garden truly special is how Mrs. Reid created her garden.With the permission of landowners, Mrs. Reid rescued plants for half a century from sites that were about to be developed. Her plants used to live where Cameron Village, Crabtree Valley Mall and other large developments now stand. The Reid Garden is not only a beautiful garden; it also holds the history of the Triangle before rapid growth covered many local natural areas with asphalt and concrete.

Margaret Reid learned her wildflower rescuing skills from Dr. B.W. Wells, North Carolina's first plant ecologist and longtime friend of the Reids. Mrs. Reid would accompany Dr. Wells on his plant expeditions. She rescued her first native plant in 1932. Many of Mrs. Reid's rescued plants are uncommon in this region, and she developed a reputation for being able to save plants many thought were impossible to transplant.

The Margaret Reid Wildflower Garden is not a typical TLC-protected nature area, but, as a floral showcase for North Carolina's Piedmont, it is a local treasure. And we have the artistry, dedication, and magic of Margaret Reid to thank.

Because of the fragile nature of the garden, it is open to the public through arranged tours and workshops. Contact the TLC office for a program of upcoming events at the Reid Garden, or call us to schedule a private tour for your garden club.