Mount Pleasant Cemetery
Section V
Mount Pleasant Cemetery is one of Toronto’s most cherished green sanctuaries and home to one of the finest tree collections in North America. From its earliest days in the late 19thcentury, the cemetery was intentionally designed as an arboretum for the enjoyment of the public, a place where nearly every tree capable of thriving in this climate could grow.
The arboretum contains hundreds of varieties, representing generations of thoughtful care. As trees age out or are removed for safety, they are replaced with species chosen to complement the broader collection. The result is a landscape that evolves gracefully while staying true to its historic vision: a living museum of trees shaped by stewardship, memory and time.
Among its many distinct areas, the ornamental section has become a beloved favourite for locals. Here, the landscape feels intentionally expressive, shaped by form, seasonal colour and the artistry of carefully selected trees. One of its most admired highlights is the Star Magnolia, whose early luminous blossoms are eagerly anticipated each spring. Its star-shaped flowers open when much of the arboretum is still waking up, offering a soft burst of brightness that draws visitors closer. The Star Magnolia has become something of a seasonal marker – an annual moment of renewal that many look forward to year after year.
Yet the charm of this part of the arboretum runs deeper than beauty alone. Mount Pleasant’s trees demonstrate the profound benefits of urban forests. Even a brief encounter with greenery can ease stress, improve concentration and support emotional well-being. Hospital patients recover more quickly with views of trees, and workers with natural vistas report higher satisfaction and better overall health. Tree-rich spaces help strengthen community ties, encouraging neighbours to get outdoors and contributing to safer, more welcoming environments.
Environmentally, the trees serve as essential green infrastructure, filtering pollutants, storing carbon, moderating temperatures, reducing stormwater runoff and providing habitat for wildlife. Each tree contributes to a healthier city.
Sources:
• Mount Pleasant Group Arboretum Team
• Mount Pleasant Arboretum Book
Photo: Courtesy of Daniel Chevalier, Mount Pleasant Group
