In 1922, the Board of Regents appropriated $2,000 to establish the Peony Garden. A critically evaluated and large collection of herbaceous peonies was offered to the university by Dr. W. E. Upjohn, a U-M alumnus and founder of the Upjohn Pharmaceutical Co. in Kalamazoo. Upjohn likely contributed peonies from his own extensive collection, and selections from nationally recognized experts. The garden opened to the public in 1927.
— Information courtesy of Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum
