Botanical gardens display area’s flora

A butterfly garden is one of many at the South Texas Botanical Gardens. Learn about Coastal Bend plants and animals at the South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center, located at 8545 S. Staples St. in Corpus Christi.

This popular 180-acre destination is home to nine floral exhibits and gardens, among which is the 100-plant Plumeria Garden, with its viewing platform. It is thought to be one of the largest public displays in the continental United States.

Visitors also can explore the multiple trails located within the center’s grounds. The shaded Bird and Butterfly Trail leads to a birding tower, and Palapa Grande on Gator Lake and the Wetland Awareness Boardwalk take viewers over a wetland. For the energetic, Oso Creek Loop Trail winds its way down to Oso Creek.

The Garden Shoppe is open year-round and offers a variety of unique merchandise.

Classes in birding, planting, holiday floral design and more are offered at the gardens.

Admission is $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, active military and students with an ID, $3 for children ages 5-12, and no charge for members and children under 5. Regular operating hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through May, then 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Labor Day.

Visit www.stxbot.org to find out the latest information on upcoming events and to sign up for free monthly e-calendar reminders.

For more information, call (361) 852-2100.