In a dazzling display, America’s flower gardens are bursting with vibrant hues and enchanting scents this season. From coast to coast and beyond, these botanical havens welcome travelers with a captivating spectacle.
EASTERN: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Sarasota, Florida
Nestled along the scenic shores of Sarasota Bay, Selby Gardens is an oasis that boasts a staggering variety of orchids, bromeliads, gesneriads, and ferns. As one of the “12 most beautiful gardens of the American South,” according to Fodor’s Travel, Selby Gardens offers two distinct experiences.
Its main location features the world’s only botanical garden dedicated to displaying and studying tropical plants. The smaller campus to the south showcases native Florida species.
CENTRAL: Missouri Botanical Garden, St. Louis, Missouri
Since 1876, the Missouri Botanical Garden has been a renowned hub for horticultural enthusiasts. This year, the garden showcases a newly discovered species of Darwin’s orchid from Madagascar.
With more than 3,000 orchid species, Travel & Leisure magazine includes the Missouri attraction among its “15 of America’s Most Beautiful Gardens.” The garden also boasts impressive collections of daffodils and daylilies, as well as a tropical paradise housed within the iconic Climatron conservatory.
MOUNTAIN: Betty Ford Alpine Garden, Vail, Colorado
Amidst the towering Rocky Mountains, the Betty Ford Alpine Garden stands as the highest altitude botanical garden on Earth at 8,200 feet above sea level. It showcases the resilience and diversity of Alpine plant life, including Penstemon, milkweed, asters, and ornamental grasses.
Its website aptly states, “The climate extremes found in the alpine ecosystem require that plants have to adapt in order to survive.”
PACIFIC: Crystal Spring Rhododendron Garden, Portland, Oregon
On the east bank of the Willamette River, Crystal Spring Rhododendron Garden combines the beauty of flowers, water features, and accessibility. From April through June, the garden erupts in a kaleidoscope of colors as azaleas and rhododendrons burst into full bloom.
With picturesque bridges, tranquil waterfalls, a lake, and abundant birdlife, Crystal Springs is a year-round delight. But in springtime, it transforms into a truly magical place, earning praise from PinesandVines.com as “nothing short of magical.”
HAWAII-ALEUTIAN: Limahuli Garden & Preserved, Kauai, Hawaii
On the westernmost island of Kauai, Limahuli Garden & Preserved is revered as a “pu’uhonua” (place of refuge). Its incredible biodiversity and stunning mountainous backdrop make it an unparalleled botanical sanctuary.
The garden showcases native Hawaiian plants, including several that are critically endangered. TripAdvisor.com reviewers rave about the “powerful history and native roots” and the “full heart and inspired spirit” that visitors take away from this breathtaking destination.
Embark on a botanical pilgrimage this season and witness the vibrant tapestry of flowers that paints the American landscape. From the lush tropics to the towering mountains, there’s a garden for every heart to cherish.
Data sourced from: foxnews.com
