HEATHCOTE BOTANICAL GARDENS

By  Mike Miller April 22, 2025

Heathcote Botanical Gardens, located in Fort Pierce, Florida, is a serene five-acre subtropical oasis known as the “Green Heart of the Treasure Coast.”

Established in 1985, this non-profit botanical garden features a diverse collection of themed gardens, including a Japanese Garden, Butterfly Garden, and the nation’s largest public tropical bonsai display.

Heathcote Botanical Gardens Herb Garden

With winding paths, vibrant flora, and tranquil settings, Heathcote offers visitors a peaceful retreat to explore nature’s beauty and learn about environmental conservation. 

Heathcote began as a commercial nursery in the 1930s, founded by Frederick Pierce Fox and later managed by landscape architect Mollie Crimmins and her husband, Jim.

In 1960, the Crimmins relocated the nursery from West Orange Avenue to its current Savannah Road site, moving their 1922 Frame Vernacular home, now Heathcote House, there in 1967.

When the Crimmins retired, a group of local citizens, led by figures like Gloria Moore, raised funds to preserve the site.

In 1985, Heathcote Botanical Gardens, Inc. was incorporated, and the property was purchased with contributions from the City of Fort Pierce, St. Lucie County, the State of Florida, and the Friends of Heathcote.

In 2001, Heathcote House was designated a Historically Significant Site for its architectural charm and community ties. 

Located at 210 Savannah Road, Fort Pierce, FL 34982 (phone 772-464-4672), Heathcote is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm, and Sundays from November to April, 12 pm to 4 pm.

Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors, $5 for children aged 6-17, and free for veterans and children under 6. Pets are welcome for $1 each if leashed.

Visitors can explore using a self-guided map or book guided tours for groups of six or more, scheduled two weeks in advance.

Wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen, and download a leaf identifier app, as some plant labels are faded.

The gift shop offers unique souvenirs, and the Garden of Lights event in December is a must-see.

• Largest Tropical Bonsai Collection: The James J. Smith Bonsai Gallery showcases over 100 tropical bonsai, including a 200-year-old buttonwood and a twin-trunk Jaboticaba styled by John Naka. 

• Mollie Crimmins’ Legacy: Mollie pioneered transplanting Sabal Palmetto palms and promoted native plants in the 1930s, shaping the garden’s focus on Florida’s flora. 

• Garden of Lights: This annual fundraiser features tens of thousands of Christmas lights, drawing over 10,000 visitors with Florida-themed displays and a model train. 

• Resident Cats: Friendly cats, like Hilgi, often guide visitors, adding whimsy to the experience. 

HEATHCOTE BOTANICAL GARDENS WEBSITE