Springtime Changes at Tohono Chul

This post is for the many friends I've known at Tohono Chul, especially those who have not seen the changes that began in the last two or three years, including a new designation as Tohono Chul Bistro, Galleries, and Gardens. This post is also for anyone who loves the Sonoran Desert in the springtime. (For some typical flowers, click here.) Spring has started three or four weeks early this year, but is still gorgeous, exciting, and thrilling. If you are in the Tucson area or planning to visit, please stop by. You will be glad you did.

Remarkable Penstemons, near the entrance

                                                                             

Early-blooming hedgehog, across from Overlook

                                                                                                                                                                               

Spring Garden (So far--lots of flowers still to come)

                                                                               

Bluebells

                                                             

New Orchard east of the former cholla forest

                                                                               

"Living Fence" (ocotillos) north of Ethno Garden

                                       

Closeup of living fence leafing out, with early blooms

                                                                           

Old Penstemon Garden

                                                 

New Penstemon Garden, currently hidden behind cloth fence

                                                                                   

Desert Hibiscus on the way to parking lot, saying "Come back soon!"