US EditionThousands of Peonies Destroyed at University of Michigan Garden
- Staff at the University of Michigan's Nichols Arboretum reported thousands of peony plants were vandalized early June 1, 2025, in Ann Arbor.
- The vandalism occurred overnight on the north side of the W.E. Upjohn Peony Garden during peak bloom, with about 250 of 800 plants damaged; no group claimed responsibility.
- Police found 100 paper signs with messages prioritizing human lives over plants and are actively investigating while urging the public to provide tips.
- The head of Matthaei Botanical Gardens expressed strong disapproval of the destruction, emphasizing that the garden represents more than just plants—it is a vital part of the community and life itself—and conveyed confidence that the garden will recover and bloom once more.
- The university condemned the vandalism as unacceptable, emphasizing that damaging this community space harms reflection and connection to nature.
16 Articles
16 Articles
Pro-Palestinian protesters rip off hundreds of flower heads at U. Michigan garden
Protesters leave sign saying no one should enjoy flower garden when Palestinians are ‘dying and starving’ Protesters plucked the heads off hundreds of flowers Sunday at the University of Michigan, leaving a sign saying people should not enjoy the peony garden when Palestinians are “dying and starving right now.” University police described the incident as an act of vandalism committed for the… Source
Thousands of peonies destroyed at University of Michigan garden | News Channel 3-12
By Paula Wethington Click here for updates on this story ANN ARBOR, Michigan (WWJ) — Thousands of peonies were vandalized at a University of Michigan garden at the peak of the flower’s bloom time. The vandalism happened late Saturday and was discovered Wednesday at the WE Upjohn Peony Garden in the Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum. Thousands of flowers appeared to have been intentionally cut and left behind on the ground, wit…
'Plant lives don't matter': University of Michigan peony garden vandalized in possible Gaza protest
Thousands of blooming peony flowers were destroyed early Sunday at a University of Michigan garden at the Nichols Arboretum in a possible protest against the violence in Gaza.
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