Texas Discovery Gardens, located in Dallas, spans 7.5 acres and has plants native to Texas as well as from other areas of the world that have adapted to the Texas climate. Texas Discovery Gardens in is the first public garden in the state to be certified as 100 percent organic. There are 10 themed areas throughout the garden, including a butterfly habitat, native wildlife pond, scent garden, shade garden and heirloom garden. Other highlights include a two-story tropical conservatory, waterfall and scented garden for the blind.
Chandor Gardens, located in Weatherford, features Chinese/English-style gardens. Highlights include a 40-foot waterfall, fountains, stone pathways and climbing roses on the 3.5-acre site. Chandor Gardens is open from the first weekend in April to the last weekend in November.
Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center, located in Orange, has more than 300 plant species within five indoor rooms in addition to four sculpture rooms. Shangri La Botanical Gardens spans across 252 acres. Highlights include a bird blind for visitors to observe the heronry and a Nature Center. This garden has more than 300 species of plants in nine different areas. The main pathway is about a mile long.
Texas A&M Horticultural Gardens, located in Bryan-College Station on the campus of Texas A&M University, has more than 2,500 plant species on site within 30 different plant life areas. Walking paths lead through the Texas A&M Horticultural Gardens and feature plenty of sitting areas.
Clark Gardens Botanical Park, located in Mineral Wells, has more than 50 individual gardens that span over 35 acres. Highlights include a English Channel Garden, historic tree trail, rose trail garden and outdoor train model exhibit. Waterfalls and ponds are located throughout Clark Gardens as well.
Mercer Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, located in Humble along Cypress Creek, has the largest display of native and cultivated plants on the Gulf Coast. The 250-acre site has more than 20 unique gardens and 5 miles of trails. Plant life includes bamboo, color displays, day lilies, endangered species, ferns, gingers, herbs and tropical species. The garden also has picnic and playground areas.
