While a garden is a very general term that includes a broad range of plant growing, botanical gardens are a purposeful collection of plants grown for more than just their beauty. Botanical gardens hold curated collections of plants for inventory, education, conservation, and research. The UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens partakes in all of these aspects of being a botanical garden. We are a member of the American Public Gardens Association (APGA) and are dedicated to sharing the world of plants with people through our curated collections.

Through data collection, sharing, education, and fostering personal connections, Budburst encapsulates the mission of UNC Charlotte's Botanical Gardens, aligning with our goal to educate and promote a passion for plants and the outdoors. By participating in Budburst, we aim to enrich the experiences of our visitors, while contributing valuable insights into the ever-evolving relationship between humanity and the natural world.