The Oak Openings is special collection begun in 2001 in partnership with the Ann Arbor Chapter of the Wild Ones. The intention is to develop a collection of the plants formerly common to the oak openings habitats in the Ann Arbor area. Oak Openings serves both as a display and for propagating plants for use in other restorations throughout the Arboretum.
 
Oak Openings is the most floriferous during the summer, when many of the wildflowers that require nearly full summer sun come into bloom. The term, oak openings, refers to the general name given by early European settlers to the quasi-open woodlands and prairies found in Southern Michigan and other Midwestern states. These same habitats have also been called oak savannas, oak barrens, oak groves, oak woodlands, or prairies depending on the soil types, density of trees and overall degree of openness. Today, these habitats are among the most threatened in the U.S. with less than 1% remaining.

The Oak Openings Garden is at the Nichols Arboretum site.

Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum collections need private support and provide donors with many giving opportunities and recognition. For more details, please contact the Development Office at 1-734-615-9475.

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