Depending on where you live, it might be cold outside, so I wanted to bring a little warmth and sunshine into your life by sharing the photos I took when visiting Botanica Wichita in September.
The garden complex opened in 1987 with four gardens and a horticultural library. Today, there are more than 30 themed gardens and exhibits.
This botanical paradise has over 18 acres of stunning gardens that feature more than 4,000 species of plants, both native and new to the region.
The gardens include an aquatic collection, butterfly garden, and 2,880 square foot butterfly house featuring pansy exhibits during the winter; a greenhouse for tropical plants, a juniper collection with more than 30 types of junipers; a peony collection of 104 cultivars; pinetum; rock garden with sedum and sempervivum; rose garden with more than 350 rose plants; sensory garden; Shakespearean garden; woodlands with azaleas, dogwoods, elm, hackberry, honey locust, mulberry, osage orange, and redbuds; and Xeriscape demonstration garden.
Botanica opened the Downing Children’s Garden in July 2011, and it features several themed areas, including the monster woods, salamander stream, Granddaddy’s musical maze, a rainbow and sunflower fountain, and a plaza.
I spent the better part of two hours just appreciating the beauty of the gardens and respecting those who thought to create such an oasis in this beautiful city.
The gardens are at 701 Amidon Street, Wichita; call (316) 264-0448 or click here.
For information on all the other attractions, hotels, restaurants, and shopping opportunities, go to Visit Wichita by clicking here.
