WASHINGTON, DC, United States — Saucer magnolia trees in full bloom at the Enid A. Haupt Garden, adjacent to the Smithsonian Castle. The pink and white blossoms of these ornamental trees create a colorful spring display in this formal public garden on the National Mall.
Photograph by David Coleman. The Enid A. Haupt Garden, a public garden located in the heart of Washington, DC, comes alive each spring with the vibrant blooms of saucer magnolia trees. This picturesque scene, set against the backdrop of the iconic Smithsonian Castle, offers visitors a stunning display of nature's beauty in an urban setting. The saucer magnolia (Magnolia x soulangeana), also known as the tulip tree or Japanese magnolia, is a hybrid plant known for its large, saucer-shaped flowers that bloom in early spring before the leaves appear. The flowers of these deciduous trees range in color from pure white to various shades of pink and purple, creating a soft, romantic atmosphere in the garden. The Enid A. Haupt Garden, named after the philanthropist who funded its creation, was opened to the public in 1987 as part of the Smithsonian Institution's outdoor museum space. Designed as a rooftop garden above underground museum facilities, it showcases a blend of formal and informal garden styles, reflecting various cultural influences. The garden is composed of three distinct areas: the centrally located Parterre, the Moongate Garden, and the Fountain Garden. The saucer magnolias are strategically placed throughout these spaces, their blooms complementing the garden's other features, including carefully manicured lawns, ornate fountains, and diverse plant collections. While the garden is beautiful year-round, the blooming of the saucer magnolias marks a special time, usually occurring in late March to early April, slightly before or coinciding with the famous cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin. This timing makes the Haupt Garden a popular alternative or addition to the National Cherry Blossom Festival activities. The presence of these flowering trees in the garden serves multiple purposes. Aesthetically, they provide a breathtaking visual display and photo opportunities for visitors. Ecologically, they support local pollinators and contribute to the
Size: 8256px × 5504px
Location: Enid A. Haupt Garden, Washington, District of Columbia, United States
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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