2024 September 20 Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

With time between our flight and my Aunt Carol’s Celebration of Life memorial, my mom, sister and I spent time at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin, Texas. We checked this one off my bucket list! I use their database often to learn about the native North American plants and to plan my gardens. We got to see the whole showcase of plants displayed in a beautifully-tended horticultural oasis! Of course, that diversity of plants also featured amazing wildlife! Every turn if the path featured something interesting, whether intentionally planted or surprising. It was dreamy. 

The design of every feature in the garden led to panoramic views or framed wildflower vignettes. 

Water features were both beautiful and wildlife-focused. 

A Flame Skimmer (Libellula saturara) rests on a native reed.

The Blue Mistflower Conoclinium coelestinum brought all the butterflies to the yard. The late-season blooms, short stature, and large native range may make this a contender for a nice front-yard plant for biodiversity.

The Horace’s Duskywing (above) and Queen Butterfly (below) are enjoying the Blue Mistflower. 

It was hot and dry; great conditions for a Texas Spiny Lizard. 

And great conditions for succulents! 

Lady Bird Johnson had a vision for the conservation of wildlife that endures today. 

Family photo! Seriously, everything was breathtaking. Someone was having her wedding photos done while we were there. Gorgeous.

My mom on the terrace of the scenic tower. 

This visit lived up to my expectations! 

Thank you to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center staff for keeping the place immaculate!