In recent weeks, several Texan friends have mentioned, on their blogs and social media, that the Texas Mountain Laurels (Dermatophyllum secundiflorum; syn. Sophora secundiflora) were blooming. This reminded me of our time in the state last year. It also reminded me that I hadn't shared highlights from our visit to the San Antonio Japanese Tea Garden, which was a truly unique place!
Several Texas Mountain Laurels were blooming outside the entrance, and we spent some quality time before and after our visit viewing, smelling, and enjoying them. The scent has been described as grape bubblegum, which I recall as being about right.
The pollinators enjoyed them, too. I believe this is a horse-fly carpenter bee.
The tea garden, which is more than 100 years old, exceeded my expectations and was totally different than I expected. It's described as "magical" on the San Antonio Parks web site, and that seems about right. My photos and words don't do it justice: It's one of those places you have to visit to get the full effect. There's so much beautiful rock and stone work everywhere you look, and the layout is so unique.
Built in the pit of a former limestone quarry and cement factory, it was shaped into a pavilion, walkways, arch bridges, pond surrounds, an island, and more.
When we were there, beautiful annuals, along with resident perennials, were on display. These colorful Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus) brightened the late February landscape.
Various grasses, Prickly Pear cacti (Opuntia alta), and other native perennials framed the scene around the property.
The rock work, mixed with beautiful plants and blooms was truly special.
Along with the giant, 60-foot waterfall, which made a dramatic statement.
If/when you visit San Antonio, don't miss this special place. I'm sure it's beautiful and incredible any time of year.
When we were there, beautiful annuals, along with resident perennials, were on display. These colorful Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus) brightened the late February landscape.
Various grasses, Prickly Pear cacti (Opuntia alta), and other native perennials framed the scene around the property.
The rock work, mixed with beautiful plants and blooms was truly special.
Along with the giant, 60-foot waterfall, which made a dramatic statement.
If/when you visit San Antonio, don't miss this special place. I'm sure it's beautiful and incredible any time of year.
To learn more about the history of the Japanese Tea Garden, and plans for its future, visit the San Antonio Parks Foundation and the San Antonio Parks & Recreation descriptions.
Beautiful stonework - and a waterfall! It's impressive - and I LOVE those mountain laurels.
ReplyDeleteYes, it's an amazing place, and I'd like to get back there someday. The Texas Mountain Laurels were incredible! It must be wonderful to have things blooming in February. ;-)
DeleteBeautiful!
ReplyDeleteMakes me wish I could make another trip to San Antonio
Oh, I know: I've only been to San Antonio a couple of times, but had wonderful experiences both trips. I would like to go back, too. So many places on the bucket list...and the return bucket list. ;-)
DeleteWhat a wonderful place to visit. Lots of reasons to be cheered up after a visit to stunning gardens! - Rosie
ReplyDeleteYes, it was great! San Antonio has so much to offer, and this garden was one of the highlights of our trip.
DeleteBeautiful... just what I needed on a dreary day here in Northwest Wisconsin.
ReplyDeleteCold, cold, cold too. I am ready for true spring. :-)
Love, Carla
Oh good. We're having some nice days down here. Maybe the milder weather is coming your way soon, too? So much blooming now!
DeleteWhat an unusual garden in see in a warm, dry climate!
ReplyDeleteYes, it was unique, for sure. My photos really can't do it justice. I highly recommend a visit if/when you visit the area. :)
DeleteWhat a great visit! The stonework is fantastic, thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteYes, the stonework was amazing. And the entire property was so unique. I remember stepping down into it and feeling awed.
DeleteThe craftsmanship of that stone work is amazing. Hail to the workmen of long ago who did that! A mix of Asian style bridges and other structures combined with Texas native plants is a fascinating combination.
ReplyDeleteFormer quarries and reservoirs appear to make great gardens. The Huntington Japanese-style garden was a reservoir, and I think it's the famous Buchart Garden in Canada that was a quarry?
Sorry to be so late with this reply. Yes, the stonework was incredible. They entire place is just so unique, and the photos can't really do it justice. I haven't visited the gardens you mention, but I hope to. Butchart has been on my "dream list" for so long!
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