Special to The Leader

While the showcase of flowers and wildlife typically returns in mid-March, above average temperatures this winter throughout Southeast Texas has dramatically accelerated the arrival of Spring.

During the next two weeks Shangri La’s gardens and floral displays are poised to burst into an extravagant painter’s palette of colors. In fact, many of Shangri La’s azaleas are already blooming and will peak in the next two weeks, nearly a month earlier than normal.

Shangri La’s Ruby Lake is already teeming with life, as well, with the early return of hundreds of aquatic birds, particularly Great Egrets and Cormorants that are already nesting and soon to be rearing their young. Each week more birds arrive and by May, Ruby Lake will be home to thousands of nesting birds.

“Now is a perfect time to visit Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center in Orange, Texas”, says Rick Lewandowski, Director. “We encourage everyone to get outdoors and experience the gardens as they emerge from winter slumber and immerse themselves in the spectacular spring show of flowers and wildlife that is underway.”

In addition to the annual showcase of azaleas and nesting migratory birds, Shangri La offers a terrific opportunity for families to enjoy the magnificent spring-like weather of Southeast Texas by taking an invigorating stroll through Shangri La’s gardens on a journey of renewal and discovery.

The Here We Grow! Children’s Garden is a magical place for the senses during Spring time for the young and young at heart. In addition to the many flowers, the vegetable garden offers a wide range of winter crops. Don’t forget to peek in the nearby Epiphyte House to experience the glorious array of tropical blooming orchids.

Finally, visitors can cap off their visit to Shangri La with an Outpost Tour along Adams Bayou. During this journey on the bayou, there are many opportunities to appreciate the beauty and diversity of Southeast Texas’ wetland environments. The guided tour, staffed by knowledgeable interpreters, will introduce guests to the fascinating plants, animals, and natural history of the region.

With the early arrival of Spring, it’s a great time for the young and the young at heart to make a visit to Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center and see all that the gardens and nature have to offer.

Shangri La is located at 2111 W. Park Avenue in Orange, and is open Tuesday – Saturday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.