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!"

Sonoran Spring Beauty

This time of year is breathtaking throughout the Tucson area. Hiking in a desert canyon can be like stepping into a medieval millefleurs tapestry. Our yards and medians have erupted in color. Courting and nesting birds are everywhere, as are butterflies of all sizes. Please join me for a brief walk in Tohono Chul Park for a small taste of what I see every day.

One of the new entry paths into the Park, lined with Parry's penstemon

Brittle bush grows in profusion everywhere, on easements, in washes, in yards, and throughout the Park

Penstemons appear to be growing from this ocotillo, which will send out its own blooms any day now

Gorgeosity in the Sundial Plaza, along with a scrap-metal vulture

Blackfoot daisies line several paths

Hedgehogs are the first cacti to bloom; these are Boyce-Thompson variety

These lovely flowers are new to me this year: Baby's Bonnet

On the way out of the Park, let's stop for a close look at these beautiful tufted evening primroses

But wait! There's more! Here's a look at late spring from last year, with a different cast but just as much beauty.