Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay, Maine, grew from a community effort begun in 1991 into New England’s largest botanical garden when it opened in 2007 after 16 years of planning and development. Shaped by nearly a mile of tidewater shoreline, its gardens emphasize native Maine plants and species suited to northern coastal conditions. Distinctive spaces include major rhododendron, hillside, sensory, children’s, and meditation gardens, along with an education center recognized for net zero energy design. Later additions such as a native butterfly and moth house and Thomas Dambo’s wooden trolls broadened its appeal. Despite controversy over a proposed expansion, it remains a leading cultural and environmental destination.