Hundreds of peonies at the University of Michigan’s WE Upjohn Peony Garden were vandalized over the weekend, leaving behind a trail of destruction and disappointment for visitors who had been eagerly awaiting the garden’s peak bloom time.
The garden, located in the Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum, is one of the largest peony gardens in North America. However, on Wednesday, university police discovered that about 250 out of roughly 800 peony plants had their flowers cut and left behind on the ground. The damage was extensive, with many visitors expressing shock and dismay at what they saw.
"It was like someone came through here with a pair of scissors," said one visitor. "It was just devastating."
No group has been identified or taken credit for the vandalism. However, some papers were left behind with messages referencing recent violence between Israel and Hamas. One paper read: "Palestinian lives deserve to be cared for. More than these flowers." Similar messages appeared on campus and social media platforms.
"What happened here was an act of disregard not just for this garden but also its community," said a post on Instagram. "We expect many more blooms yet."
Tony Kolenic, director at Matthaei-Nichols, stated that the plant roots appear intact, so all peonies should return next year.
The incident occurred during a time when peak bloom was expected last weekend (May 30-June 1). The university is now investigating this incident; anyone with information can contact university police dispatch at 734-763-1131, email police@umich.edu, or use their confidential tip line at 800-863-1355.
This is not an isolated incident; similar vandalism has occurred in other parts of Ann Arbor over recent weeks as tensions between Israel and Hamas have escalated globally.
In response to this incident, Matthaei-Nichols will be hosting events celebrating peace throughout June.
"We are committed to fostering understanding through education," Kolenic said. "Please join us as we celebrate peace by learning from each other."
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