Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center - The Botanic Garden of Texas

Have you ever felt like nature sends little love notes your way? 💌 Gray globemallow (Sphaeralcea incana) is putting on an early Valentine`s display in our gardens right now. Native to West Texas and other parts of the southwestern United States, this plant is a real treat for the eyes - and for the bees, too!

We’re open normal hours this weekend (9 a.m. to 5 p.m., last entry at 4 p.m.), so why not take a leisurely stroll with your Valentine? Plan your visit at the link in our bio!

#WildflowerCenter #StayWild #Mallows #WoollyGlobemallow #NativePlants

Feb 7

Open

Even while we’re closed for some behind-the-scenes work, someone’s still enjoying the gardens! This Texas spiny lizard (Sceloporus olivaceus) was spotted soaking up the sunshine and keeping a watchful eye on things.

 Texas spiny lizards are the most widespread lizard species in Texas and can change color slightly to blend in with their surroundings.

 Our team is working on important projects like prescribed burns and garden maintenance, and we’ll be reopened for normal hours this weekend – see you then!

 #WildflowerCenter #StayWild #TexasSpinyLizard #TexasWildlife

Feb 6

Open

Celebrated in interior design circles, Marian McEvoy’s (@gustthepoodle) botanical art has previously been available only at @krbnyc in New York City and @cabanamagazine in Milan. We are thrilled to partner with Marian and KRB to launch an exclusive series of three prints based on her original botanical collages.

 Before her role as founding Editor-in-Chief of Elle Décor and Paris fashion editor for Women’s Wear Daily, Marian reported on fashion and design for French Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar. She now creates her renowned art from a vine-covered cottage on the Hudson River.

 Sales of these hand-signed, limited-edition prints—available now in our Shop and Gallery—benefit the Center’s horticulture and conservation work.

 #WildflowerCenter #MarianMcEvoy #BotanicalArt

Feb 5

Open

New class: Family Birding
Saturday, March 8 | 8 - 10 a.m.

Did you know Texas has over 600 bird species? More than almost any other state! Whether you’re a first-time birder or already know your warblers from your wrens, this all-new guided walk is a fun way to explore the world of birds as a family.

Volunteers from @travisaudubonsociety will teach young explorers (ages 8+) the basics of birding, including how to use binoculars, spot native and migratory birds, and even recognize their calls.

Spots are limited! Register at the link in our bio.

📷: Painted bunting (Passerina ciris) by Bill J. Boyd

#StayWild #WildflowerCenter #Birding #TexasBirds

Feb 3

Open

Thank you for helping us imagine the future of the Wildflower Center! At Tuesday’s Community Brainstorming Session, we explored ways to improve access, expand conservation efforts, and create new ways for visitors to connect with nature. Now, we want to hear from you! ⬇️

 Whether you joined us or couldn’t make it, your input is essential. Tap the link in our bio to share your thoughts by Feb. 28!

 What programs and events matter most to you? What do you love about the gardens? Your feedback will help us ensure the Center remains a valuable resource for our community. Thanks for being part of this process - we can’t wait to share what’s ahead!

@lakeflato @studiooutside @teneyckla

 #WildflowerCenter #NativePlants #AustinTX #Conservation #CommunityMatters

Feb 1

Open

Featured Fort: Harmony Habitat 🐾

 From a dark underground burrow to a lofty, suspended nest, Harmony Habitat invites children to explore the diverse homes of Central Texas wildlife. Designed by @okkemdesign, this geodesic fort is made of two interconnected halves - one nestled below like an animal’s den, the other rising above like a bird’s nest.

 Visitors can crawl, climb, and perch, discovering the ways creatures adapt to their surroundings, while learning about harmonic geometry and three-dimensional shapes. The structure is adorned with intricate images of wildlife in their natural environments - animals burrowing beneath the earth, birds among the trees - blending play with discovery.

 🌟 We’ve got a lovely, sunny forecast this weekend, just in time for your last chance to explore Fortlandia before it closes on Feb. 2. Visit our website to plan your visit!

🎥 Behind the scenes footage courtesy of Okkem Design and additional video by Julia Bennett

 #HarmonyHabitat #Fortlandia #WildflowerCenter #AustinTX #StayWild #NaturePlay

Jan 31

Open

The Wildflower Center is looking for a Guest Services Manager to help create inspiring experiences for our garden visitors! This role leads our Guest Services team in providing top-notch hospitality, from hiring and training staff to collaborating with volunteers, organizing tours, and representing our guests’ perspectives.

Ready to work in a beautiful botanic garden?  We’re also hiring a Nursery Manager and Horticulturist! Learn more about all opportunities at the Wildflower Center and apply at the link in our bio.

📷 @tdimenno

#StayWild #WildflowerCenter #AustinJobs #GoPublicGardens

Jan 31

Open

Last month, the @usfws proposed listing the monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) as Threatened under the Endangered Species Act. The @xercessociety Western Monarch Count announced today that just 9,119 monarchs overwintered along the Pacific coast this season - compared to more than 200,000 monarchs counted in recent years. It’s a powerful reminder of how urgent the need for conservation is, as populations throughout the country face similar challenges.

Here’s how you can help monarchs in Texas and beyond:
✅ Plant native milkweeds like antelope-horns (Asclepias asperula) and zizotes (Asclepias oenotheroides)
✅ Grow fall nectar plants such as Gregg’s mistflower (Conoclinium greggii) and frostweed (Helianthemum canadense)
✅ Avoid pesticides and herbicides that harm pollinators
✅ Support conservation efforts and advocate for native plant habitats

Many have spoken up for monarch butterflies this month—now’s the time! The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service is still accepting public comments on their ESA listing. Find more resources about monarchs on our Power the Migration page at the link in our bio.

#WildflowerCenter #StayWild #MonarchButterfly

Jan 30

Open

Featured Fort: Shell Yeah! 🐌

 When rain falls during the warmer months, Austin’s gardens come alive with tiny, slow-moving visitors—snails! There are 56 different species right here in Travis County and about 230 across Texas. These fascinating gastropods aren’t just adorable, though. They play a crucial role in the ecosystem by feeding on decaying material and recycling nutrients back into the soil.

 The inspiration for Shell Yeah comes from the beauty of snail shells. Their spirals, typically coiled to the right (though some rare ones coil left!), are a perfect reminder to slow down and appreciate the little wonders. Designed by @chioco_design and fabricated by @austincustomcnc, this fort invites you to embrace a slower pace and get lost in the charm of nature.

 Don’t wait too long to discover this spiraling sanctuary - Fortlandia is open until February 2. Plan your visit before it’s gone: wildflower.org/fortlandia

 🎥 Behind the scenes footage courtesy of Chioco Design and additional video by Julia Bennett

#ShellYeah #Fortlandia #WildflowerCenter #AustinTX #NaturePlay #SnailFacts #ChiocoDesign

Jan 29

Open

Baby bluebonnets are growing here! Right now, these little rosettes—those small, fuzzy, palmately compound leaves that sit low to the ground—are hard at work. They’re soaking up rain and sunshine, storing energy, and getting ready to wow us come spring.

 They’re adapted to handle Texas’ cold snaps and even look beautiful frosted over (scroll back to our post last week!). So if you’re out walking, keep an eye on the ground and tread lightly - those little leaves are the start of the blooms we’ll see in late March through April. Isn’t it amazing how much is happening beneath the surface this time of year?

 #WildflowerCenter #StayWild #Bluebonnets #NativePlants #TexasWildflowers

Jan 28

Open

Have you ever felt like nature sends little love notes your way? 💌 Gray globemallow (Sphaeralcea incana) is putting on an early Valentine`s display in our gardens right now. Native to West Texas and other parts of the southwestern United States, this plant is a real treat for the eyes - and for the bees, too!

We’re open normal hours this weekend (9 a.m. to 5 p.m., last entry at 4 p.m.), so why not take a leisurely stroll with your Valentine? Plan your visit at the link in our bio!

#WildflowerCenter #StayWild #Mallows #WoollyGlobemallow #NativePlants

Feb 7

Open

Even while we’re closed for some behind-the-scenes work, someone’s still enjoying the gardens! This Texas spiny lizard (Sceloporus olivaceus) was spotted soaking up the sunshine and keeping a watchful eye on things.

 Texas spiny lizards are the most widespread lizard species in Texas and can change color slightly to blend in with their surroundings.

 Our team is working on important projects like prescribed burns and garden maintenance, and we’ll be reopened for normal hours this weekend – see you then!

 #WildflowerCenter #StayWild #TexasSpinyLizard #TexasWildlife

Feb 6

Open

Celebrated in interior design circles, Marian McEvoy’s (@gustthepoodle) botanical art has previously been available only at @krbnyc in New York City and @cabanamagazine in Milan. We are thrilled to partner with Marian and KRB to launch an exclusive series of three prints based on her original botanical collages.

 Before her role as founding Editor-in-Chief of Elle Décor and Paris fashion editor for Women’s Wear Daily, Marian reported on fashion and design for French Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar. She now creates her renowned art from a vine-covered cottage on the Hudson River.

 Sales of these hand-signed, limited-edition prints—available now in our Shop and Gallery—benefit the Center’s horticulture and conservation work.

 #WildflowerCenter #MarianMcEvoy #BotanicalArt

Feb 5

Open

New class: Family Birding
Saturday, March 8 | 8 - 10 a.m.

Did you know Texas has over 600 bird species? More than almost any other state! Whether you’re a first-time birder or already know your warblers from your wrens, this all-new guided walk is a fun way to explore the world of birds as a family.

Volunteers from @travisaudubonsociety will teach young explorers (ages 8+) the basics of birding, including how to use binoculars, spot native and migratory birds, and even recognize their calls.

Spots are limited! Register at the link in our bio.

📷: Painted bunting (Passerina ciris) by Bill J. Boyd

#StayWild #WildflowerCenter #Birding #TexasBirds

Feb 3

Open

Thank you for helping us imagine the future of the Wildflower Center! At Tuesday’s Community Brainstorming Session, we explored ways to improve access, expand conservation efforts, and create new ways for visitors to connect with nature. Now, we want to hear from you! ⬇️

 Whether you joined us or couldn’t make it, your input is essential. Tap the link in our bio to share your thoughts by Feb. 28!

 What programs and events matter most to you? What do you love about the gardens? Your feedback will help us ensure the Center remains a valuable resource for our community. Thanks for being part of this process - we can’t wait to share what’s ahead!

@lakeflato @studiooutside @teneyckla

 #WildflowerCenter #NativePlants #AustinTX #Conservation #CommunityMatters

Feb 1

Open

Featured Fort: Harmony Habitat 🐾

 From a dark underground burrow to a lofty, suspended nest, Harmony Habitat invites children to explore the diverse homes of Central Texas wildlife. Designed by @okkemdesign, this geodesic fort is made of two interconnected halves - one nestled below like an animal’s den, the other rising above like a bird’s nest.

 Visitors can crawl, climb, and perch, discovering the ways creatures adapt to their surroundings, while learning about harmonic geometry and three-dimensional shapes. The structure is adorned with intricate images of wildlife in their natural environments - animals burrowing beneath the earth, birds among the trees - blending play with discovery.

 🌟 We’ve got a lovely, sunny forecast this weekend, just in time for your last chance to explore Fortlandia before it closes on Feb. 2. Visit our website to plan your visit!

🎥 Behind the scenes footage courtesy of Okkem Design and additional video by Julia Bennett

 #HarmonyHabitat #Fortlandia #WildflowerCenter #AustinTX #StayWild #NaturePlay

Jan 31

Open

The Wildflower Center is looking for a Guest Services Manager to help create inspiring experiences for our garden visitors! This role leads our Guest Services team in providing top-notch hospitality, from hiring and training staff to collaborating with volunteers, organizing tours, and representing our guests’ perspectives.

Ready to work in a beautiful botanic garden?  We’re also hiring a Nursery Manager and Horticulturist! Learn more about all opportunities at the Wildflower Center and apply at the link in our bio.

📷 @tdimenno

#StayWild #WildflowerCenter #AustinJobs #GoPublicGardens

Jan 31

Open

Last month, the @usfws proposed listing the monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) as Threatened under the Endangered Species Act. The @xercessociety Western Monarch Count announced today that just 9,119 monarchs overwintered along the Pacific coast this season - compared to more than 200,000 monarchs counted in recent years. It’s a powerful reminder of how urgent the need for conservation is, as populations throughout the country face similar challenges.

Here’s how you can help monarchs in Texas and beyond:
✅ Plant native milkweeds like antelope-horns (Asclepias asperula) and zizotes (Asclepias oenotheroides)
✅ Grow fall nectar plants such as Gregg’s mistflower (Conoclinium greggii) and frostweed (Helianthemum canadense)
✅ Avoid pesticides and herbicides that harm pollinators
✅ Support conservation efforts and advocate for native plant habitats

Many have spoken up for monarch butterflies this month—now’s the time! The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service is still accepting public comments on their ESA listing. Find more resources about monarchs on our Power the Migration page at the link in our bio.

#WildflowerCenter #StayWild #MonarchButterfly

Jan 30

Open

Featured Fort: Shell Yeah! 🐌

 When rain falls during the warmer months, Austin’s gardens come alive with tiny, slow-moving visitors—snails! There are 56 different species right here in Travis County and about 230 across Texas. These fascinating gastropods aren’t just adorable, though. They play a crucial role in the ecosystem by feeding on decaying material and recycling nutrients back into the soil.

 The inspiration for Shell Yeah comes from the beauty of snail shells. Their spirals, typically coiled to the right (though some rare ones coil left!), are a perfect reminder to slow down and appreciate the little wonders. Designed by @chioco_design and fabricated by @austincustomcnc, this fort invites you to embrace a slower pace and get lost in the charm of nature.

 Don’t wait too long to discover this spiraling sanctuary - Fortlandia is open until February 2. Plan your visit before it’s gone: wildflower.org/fortlandia

 🎥 Behind the scenes footage courtesy of Chioco Design and additional video by Julia Bennett

#ShellYeah #Fortlandia #WildflowerCenter #AustinTX #NaturePlay #SnailFacts #ChiocoDesign

Jan 29

Open

Baby bluebonnets are growing here! Right now, these little rosettes—those small, fuzzy, palmately compound leaves that sit low to the ground—are hard at work. They’re soaking up rain and sunshine, storing energy, and getting ready to wow us come spring.

 They’re adapted to handle Texas’ cold snaps and even look beautiful frosted over (scroll back to our post last week!). So if you’re out walking, keep an eye on the ground and tread lightly - those little leaves are the start of the blooms we’ll see in late March through April. Isn’t it amazing how much is happening beneath the surface this time of year?

 #WildflowerCenter #StayWild #Bluebonnets #NativePlants #TexasWildflowers

Jan 28

Open

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