Integrated Science Center

Cedrus atlantica glauca Blue Atlantic Cedar.

Quercus acutissima Leaves of the Sawtooth Oak, which is native to eastern Asia.

NYC - Bronx - New York Botanical Garden – Winterberries by {{https://www.flickr.com/photos/wallyg/,Wally Gobetz}}, {{https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/2.0/,(CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)}}

Downy Serviceberry by {{https://www.flickr.com/photos/per_verdonk/,PerVerdonk}}, {{https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/2.0/,(CC BY-NC 2.0)}}

Integrated Science Center New landscaping planted outside ISC2 (formerly Rogers Hall) after the renovation was completed in 2009. In the background is the sculpture "Oliver" by Robert M. Engman, who was Artist-in-Residence in 1979.

Zelkova serrata Several mature Zelkova trees along ISC2, formerly Rogers Hall.

Zelkova serrata Closeup showing the Zelkova's serrated leaves.

The new Integrated Science Center of 162,000 GSF houses the departments of biology, chemistry, psychology and applied science, and is the home to research and courses that span an even greater number of disciplines, living up to its name. Much of the vegetation around the building is new, but there are a few mature trees that survived the construction. As you approach the south side of the building from the west, note the group of trees against the west side of the building. These are a Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica), a blue Atlas cedar (Cedrus atlantica), a deodar cedar (Cedrus deodara) and a sawtooth oak (Quercus acutissima). Perhaps you have noticed that many different trees are called cedar! Scientifically speaking, cedar is a common name that does not necessarily imply a close relationship by all that bear that name. Note also the younger trees and bushes planted along this end. The downy service berry (Amelanchier arborea) is a smallish native tree with light grey bark and early white flowers resembling apple blossoms but which produce small dark berries. It is an excellent plant for native landscaping, attracting birds and people! The fruits can be used in jams and jellies.

On the other side of the walkway is a small group of hollies that lose their leaves in the fall. These native bushes are called winterberry (Ilex verticillata) because the berries, like other hollies, persist into the winter. However, the loss of foliage on this species greatly enhances the visibility of the clinging berries. Should you decide to landscape with these plants, make sure to include male and female bushes in order to produce fruit (one male is sufficient to pollinate several females).

The conifers with a bluish hue along the south end of the building are cultivars of our native Eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana cv. Burkii). As you reach the end of the building, note the Japanese zelkova (Zelkova serrata) planted between the sidewalk and the building. This species is a member of the elm family and is resistant to the Dutch elm disease. They are mature trees because they were part of the original landscaping of this area.

Turning the corner and heading towards Chandler Hall, you will note the interesting curved seating wall with chalkboard for outdoor lectures or student gatherings. Newly planted bald cypress (Taxodium distichum) border the wall. Best known in their natural habitats of standing water, the bald cypress can also tolerate drier soils. Several are sizable trees in other parts of campus.

Cross the street and head through the breezeway between Landrum and Chandler halls.