4th Annual Sassafras Awards 2025
Celebrate 10 years of native plant stewardship and community impact with the Native Plant Rescue Squad!
We’re honoring local gardens and the people who care for them....Everyday stewards helping native plants thrive in Knoxville and beyond.
Come for the awards, an amazing dinner, sassafras cocktails, music, a silent auction, and great company. Let’s grow something meaningful together!
our mission
Native Plant Rescue Squad (NPRS) is an educational non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation and restoration of the rich diversity of the native flora in East Tennessee. NPRS works with entities such as builders, developers, and landowners to rescue native plants that would otherwise be destroyed during clearing, building, and development. The rescued plants are then made available for educational opportunities and restoration projects with the goal of increasing the overall ecological health of our region.
We house our rescued plants at the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum, 2778 Wimpole Ave, Knoxville, TN 37914. From the main office, drive a little further down Wimpole and park in the grass across from the Martha Ashe Garden. You’ll see a sign pointing to NPRS and the Pollinator Pods. We’re located at the Stone Greenhouse (#7 on the map).
If you’re interested in purchasing plants, you’re welcome to visit anytime and shop at your own pace. Most plants are priced, and payment can be made via the posted QR codes, through our website, or by mailing a check to: 1300 Army St., Knoxville, TN 37920.
Our home
