Mother Earth Troll Garden at Huntsville Botanical Garden opens to public

Huntsville Botanical Garden (HBG) officially unveiled its newest and most enchanting attraction—the Mother Earth Troll Garden, featuring Mama Zelda, a breathtaking, larger-than-life troll sculpture created by internationally acclaimed artist Thomas Dambo. The ribbon-cutting event will celebrate this extraordinary addition to the Garden and its significance as a cultural and environmental landmark for the region.

“The Mother Earth Troll Garden and Mama Zelda represent the very heart of what we do at Huntsville Botanical Garden—connecting people with nature in meaningful and unforgettable ways,” said HBG CEO Susan Wagner. “This project blends art, sustainability, and community, creating a space where visitors of all ages can explore, discover, and be inspired. We are excited to collaborate with Thomas Dambo to bring this one-of-a-kind experience to Huntsville, and we can’t wait to share it with the world.”

With the unveiling, the Mother Earth Troll Garden area is now open to the public with Garden admission.

“Mama Zelda is more than a sculpture—she’s a storyteller, a guardian of the natural world, and a reminder of the beauty that comes from reimagining what is often overlooked,” said Thomas Dambo, known globally for his towering troll installations crafted from recycled materials. “It is an honor to bring her to Huntsville, and I hope she will inspire people for years to come to rethink the value of their trash and see that beautiful things can be made from it.”

The Mother Earth Troll Garden is a first-of-its-kind immersive experience, featuring a maze of native plants, shaded seating areas, and hidden surprises along winding paths that lead to Mama Zelda’s tranquil resting place. As a permanent installation, Mama Zelda will become a cornerstone attraction at the Garden, drawing visitors from across the country to experience her magic and the Garden’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

For more information, visit www.hsvbg.org/visit/exhibits/troll-garden.