Vibrante - The Member Magazine of the San Antonio Botanical Garden (January - April 2023)

CEO’S MESSAGE

THIS ISSUE OF VIBRANTE takes a deep dive into the critical role of conservation. At its heart, conservation is one of the most important tools we can invest in to keep our planet healthy and viable. Our 20222026 strategic plan (linked below via QR code) recommits the Garden to conservation, and we made sure it was included as one of our core organizational values: Conservation, Education, Innovation, Inclusion, and Stewardship.

As a museum of living plants, our focus on protecting the rare and endangered native flora of South and Central Texas leads us far and wide. From the Chisos Mountains to the Hill Country, our botanist roams rough and difficult terrain in the quest for rare Texas plants. For the past three decades, and as an original partner of the Center for Plant Conservation, we are the stewards of 22 threatened plant species and many of these are on display in the Rare and Endangered Garden.

There is so much to learn about conservation at the Garden. Along with plants, we are passionate about being an excellent steward of our most precious resource – fresh water. Two thirds of all the water used throughout the grounds is recycled from rainwater captured through permeable paving and rooftops. Water is held in a 29,000gallon concrete cistern under the Culinary Garden and used to fill water features and water a variety of non-edible plants. Coming in 2023 will be the exciting debut of the new WaterSaver Community generously presented by Bank of America, San Antonio Water System, and San Antonio River Authority that will transform the former and beloved WaterSaver Lane into a modern demonstration garden. WaterSaver Community will be filled with valuable and inspiring ideas for how guests can use drought tolerant plants and incorporate water conservation practices in their own landscapes. With last year’s extreme heat and drought conditions, there is no better time to learn more about conserving water.

For all lovers of beauty and orchids. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and there will be plenty of beauty to gaze upon this winter as the Garden welcomes the return of orchids — the supermodels of the plant world! Join us for Orchid Celebration: Mimicry & Reflection from January 27 through February 26, 2023 as our conservatories are transformed into colorful bursts of vibrant orchid displays. Sign up for classes and programs celebrating this prolific flower with experts explaining how orchids have mastered the art of deception to reproduce.

Thank you for all you do to support our living museum of plants. See you in the Garden,

CONSERVATION

AT THE GARDEN

Plant Protectors:

With an estimated 450 species of rare plants in the State of Texas, the San Antonio Botanical Garden incorporates conservation projects to help preserve these at-risk species. Michael Eason brings more than 20 years of conservation botany experience including a decade at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center where he managed projects such as the Millennium Seed Bank, Ferns of the Trans-Pecos, and a vegetation survey of Big Bend National Park. He works throughout the State with partners, including private landowners, to ensure the conservation of rare plants.

HABITAT LOSS IS THE SINGLE BIGGEST THREAT TO OUR FLORA, and given that 95 percent of Texas is private property, working with landowners is essential. One of the Garden’s conservation projects is the Oaks of the Southwest – a collaborative effort with dozens of institutions across North America headed by The Morton Arboretum. The Garden’s involvement in this collective project led to the re-discovery of Quercus tardifolia (Late-leaf oak) in May of 2022, as well as the acquisition of Q. depressipes (Mexican dwarf oak). This is the first authorized collection of Q. depressipes from its only known U.S. population and is now part of the Garden’s living collection.

• AQUATIC PLANTS OF TEXAS: an effort to recollect, document, and collect seed from short-lived aquatic plants such as the rare Mexican mud plantain (Heteranthera mexicana). This has led to numerous new records from the ephemeral wetlands of West Texas.

• ORCHID CONSERVATION: orchid seeds collected in Texas are sent to Longwood Gardens to be propagated, eventually returning to San Antonio for the Garden’s living collection and to be shared with other institutions.

• THE TEXAS SEED BANK PROJECT: a new initiative establishing a seed bank in the Garden of common and rare species found within the borders of Texas and in adjacent ecoregions. The seed will be available for research and propagation.

• THE CENTER FOR PLANT CONSERVATION: the Garden’s oldest conservation program and partnership of 37 years focuses on rare plants found within Texas’ borders.

CALTROP

WHY IS CONSERVATION IMPORTANT?

Native

–

HEALTHY HABITATS prevent soil erosion, supplement soil with nutrients, and capture carbon, among other benefits.

AT-RISK PLANTS are imperiled for many reasons –from restricted ranges, to over-collecting in the wild, and from habitat loss through development, land management practices, and over-competition from invasive species.

RARE PLANTS are indicators of healthy, biologically diverse habitats that support a variety wildlife. By protecting rare plants and the habitats in which they live, we protect all life within these systems.

Through these conservation projects, the Garden aims to conserve all native plants, rare and common, to ensure they remain in natural landscapes for future generations and to keep Texas’ ecoregions biologically diverse.

WRIGHT’S YELLOWSHOW (Amoreuxia wrightii)

Uncommon throughout its range due to habitat loss. Collected in 2022 as part of the Texas Seed Bank Project.

Photos: 1. Michael Eason and Adam Black documenting a population of Malaxis unifolia, Green adder’s mouth orchid, in East Texas.

Boot Canyon in Big Bend National Park where Q. tardifolia was re-discovered.

Adam Black from Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories inspects Mexican Dwarf oak in its habitat.

Cuttings of Walker’s Manihot.

plants are needed for healthy habitats

providing food and shelter for wildlife and nectar for pollinators

CONSERVATION AT THE GARDEN

CENTER FOR PLANT CONSERVATION

The Center for Plant Conservation (CPC) is a network of botanical gardens, arboretums, and other organizations throughout the United States and Canada that work to save imperiled plants. This is the San Antonio Botanical Garden’s longest-running conservation program.

CONSERVING RARE AND ENDANGERED PLANT SPECIES throughout Texas is a critical part of the Garden’s mission.

With increasing threats and a need to collect and monitor plants further afield, the Garden is the custodian of 22 species, expanding its collection range to include many West Texas plants and species found in the Hill Country.

The Garden has targeted more than 45 rare plants in these regions to conserve in the upcoming years. The goal is to share excess living plant material with other gardens in the CPC network and to store seed in various seed banks, including the National Seed Storage Laboratory in Fort Collins, Colorado.

To date, the Garden has 62 rare Texas species in collection. Twenty-nine can be seen throughout

the Garden, with the bulk found in the Rare and Endangered Garden. Guests can find familiar species such as the Anacacho orchid tree (Bauhinia lunarioides) and red yucca (Hesperaloe parviflora), that, while common in the nursery trade, are at-risk in their native range. Others, such as the nodding yucca (Yucca cernuua) from East Texas, and Trans-Pecos milkvine (Matelea texensis) from West Texas have a very restricted range.

These long-term partnerships with national and regional organizations strengthen the Garden’s role as a leader in plant conservation. Through these projects, the Garden continues to build living collections, while educating the public on the importance of conservation and the region’s native flora.

PROTECT A PLANT

YOUR GIFT TO THE GARDEN helps conserve all native plants, rare and common, to ensure they remain in native landscapes for future generations.

A $100 GIFT will help fund the Garden’s conservation efforts as the stewards of more than 40 rare and endangered plant species.

Approximately 650 acres per day are developed in Texas or about 240,000 acres per year. Every 3 ½ years, Texas develops an area the size of Big Bend National Park.

An estimated 8 Texas native plant species have gone extinct the past 100 years. It was nine, but the Garden helped discover Q. tardifolia in West Texas.

There

for more field work, especially on private lands, to survey, document, and collect seed for long-term, ex situ conservation techniques such as seed banking. Seed banking is an easy and cost-effective conservation method.

is a need

Texas’ population increased by 400,000 in 2022.

CONSERVATION IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER

CONSERVATION AT THE GARDEN

Rare and Endangered GARDEN

THE NEWLY EXPANDED RARE AND ENDANGERED GARDEN concentration of rare Texas native plants housed in the Garden. Located between the Children’s Vegetable Garden and the South Texas trail, it consists of more than 5,000 square feet of planted beds and trails flowing around an iconic, wooden gazebo. This historical gazebo originally stood on the Overlook as a beacon of the Garden. With the construction of the Conservatory, the gazebo was moved to its present location where it ties in with the Rare and Endangered Collection as a reminder of preservation and resilience.

Within the Rare and Endangered Garden, guests will find familiar, though rare Texas natives, such as the Anacacho orchid tree (Bauhinia lunarioides) and red yucca (Hesperaloe parviflora) alongside endangered plants such as ashy dogweed (Thymophylla tephroleuca), Texas snowbells (Styrax platanifolius ssp. texanus), and Texas Ayenia (Ayenia limitaris).

GARDENING PLANT THIS, NOT THAT

IN AN EFFORT TO REDUCE THE NUMBERS OF INVASIVE, NON-NATIVE SPECIES, which can have a negative impact on our native plants, we recommend considering native alternatives for your landscape.

Plant this:

RUSTY BLACKHAW VIBURNUM (Viburnum rufidulum) or ELBOW BUSH (Forestiera pubescens)

CENIZO (Leucophyllum frutescens)

CEDAR ELM (Ulmus crassifolia) or LACEY OAK (Quercus laceyi) (Lindera benzoin) (Bignonia capreolata)

CORAL HONEYSUCKLE (Lonicera sempervirens)

Not that:

Conservation Long Game

THE LONG PROCESS TO INCLUDE AT-RISK SPECIES IN THE GARDEN begins with collecting plant material from wild populations and growing them in the propagation greenhouse to increase their numbers. Each year, new additions are transplanted in the Garden. In some cases, this process may take several years.

EUROPEAN PRIVET (Ligustrum spp.)

RED-TIP PHOTINIA (Photinia x fraseri)

CHINABERRY (Melia azedarach), PAPER MULBERRY (Broussonetia papyrifera) or CHINESE PISTACHE (Pistacia chinensis)

CHASTE TREE (Vitex agnus-castus) or CREPE MYRTLE (Lagerstroemia spp.)

HEAVENLY BAMBOO (Nandina domestica)

JAPANESE HONEYSUCKLE (Lonicera japonica) or CHINESE WISTERIA (Wisteria sinensis)

PLANTS ON DISPLAY IN THE RARE AND ENDANGERED

Ambrosia cheiranthifolia

Ayenia limitaris

Echeandia chandleri

Hoffmannseggia tenella

Manfreda longiflora

Manfreda sileri

Salvia pentstemonoides

Styrax platanifolius ssp. texanus

Thymophylla tephroleuca

Tillandsia baileyi

Matelea texensis

Yucca cernua

Yucca necopina

Yeatesia platystegia

Penstemon triflorus

Astrophytum asterias

Bauhinia lunarioides

Echeandia texensis

Silene subciliata

Frankenia johnstonii

Eriogonum hemipterum var. hemipterum

Berberis swaseyi

Aquilegia longissima

Amorpha roemeriana Adelia vaseyi

CONSERVATION AT THE GARDEN

THE JOURNEY OF THE MANFREDA

Seed is collected from wild populations and propagated at the garden. Once the Manfredas are mature, they are sent to partner gardens and organizations.

offspring are shared with facilities so they can replanted in the wild

collected specimens are taken to the San Antonio Botanical Garden to be propagated & distributed

The offspring are shared with conservation facilities so they can later be replanted in the wild

SILER'S TUBEROSE (Manfreda sileri)

Both species are found and collected in thick Tamaulipan Thorn Scrub in Starr County, Texas

CONSERVING THE

Manfredas of Texas

The Manfreda genus consists of approximately 28 spineless succulents that prefer arid, rocky/sandy sloped soil, making them particularly well adapted to their native range of the Southern United States, Mexico, and Central America. There are five species of Manfreda native to the United States and Texas; each of these species can be observed throughout the Garden.

LIKE MOST DESERT PLANTS OF THE AMERICAS including Agaves and Dasylirions, Manfredas were readily used by indigenous peoples. Roots of the species M. virginica were used as an infusion or a wash to treat snakebites, earning the name Rattlesnake Master. Other uses of M. virginica included treatment of diarrhea, liver ailments, and for internal parasites. The roots of other species were used as soaps or shampoos, and in some cases for the treatment of fevers or suppression of tumors. Today, extracts are used in the perfume industry and as aromatic oils.

Cultivated Manfredas, Agaves, and their numerous hybrids are relatively common because of their use in the Mezcal and landscaping industries. However, in the wild, many are endangered and should not be harvested or foraged.

The San Antonio Botanical Garden has the privilege of caring for two Manfredas, Manfreda longiflora and Manfreda sileri, in the Rare and Endangered Plants Garden where they will be recorded, propagated, seeds collected, offspring shared with other conservation facilities, and replanted in the wild to increase populations.

RARE MANFREDAS

MANFREDA LONGIFLORA

Commonly called the Longflower Tuberose, Amole De Rio, or Runyon's Huaco, this Manfreda is native to the Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas and northern Tamaulipas. In June through August, it blooms with greenish-white flowers that deepen to red as they get older.

MANFREDA SILERI

Known by the common name Siler’s Tuberose, this Manfreda can be found in open brushlands of South Texas and Northeastern Mexico. It spreads via underground rhizomes, emerging as waxy green rosettes with dark green/brown spots. In spring through mid-summer, it produces unique yellow flowers which are frequented by the night pollinators drawn by its evening fragrance.

What is in a name?

The genus was originally named to honor 14th century Italian herbal writer Manfredus de Monte Imperiale. Recent genetic work indicates that these plants should be moved to the genus Agave. The specific epithet longiflora simply means long flowers, while sileri is in honor of Major Arnold M. Siler from Corpus Christi, Texas, who collected the type species.

Texts from the manuscripts of Manfredus de Monte Imperiale

IN APPRECIATION

Donations made January 1, 2022- November 30, 2022

The Arch and Stella Rowan Foundation, Inc.

Kennedy Hatfield-Asel and Aaron Asel

Emilie and William Baine Alyssa Balzen

Robin and Mark Howard Jackson Walker LLP

John and Sue Jockusch Charitable Fund of the San Antonio Area Foundation

Lily and Jeffrey Johnson

Capital Management

Marcia and Otto Koehler Foundation

Mary Hobbs Griffith Foundation

Vicki L. McLaughlin

Judith N. Morton

Myra Stafford Pryor Charitable Trust

The Najim Charitable Foundation

Nordan Trust

Joan

Cheever and Dennis Quinn Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union

The Steves Foundation

V.H. McNutt Memorial Foundation, Inc.

Claire and George Vaughan

Suzanne and Dick Wade

William Knox Holt Foundation

Mollie Zachry

$5,000-$9,999

Lyn and Omar Akhil

Claire and John Alexander

Audi Dominion

Margie and Mote Baird

Judy H. Branch

The Caldwell Stair Charitable Fund

Lou Celia and Don Frost

Sarah and Jon Cochran

Kathleen and James Collins

Anita and John Comander

Rea Ferandez and Justin Chung

Fern Lee "Missy" Finck

Gage Foundation

Jefferson Bank

Brian T. Kelleher

Margaret and Bill Klesse

Blakely and Coleman Kneisley

Rick Liberto

Martha Mares Lebo Children's Education Fund of the San Antonio Area Foundation

Ryan and Marie Mays McCombs Foundation

Cora and Wally McGowan

McGuire Family Foundation

Neurosurgery and Spine Consultants

Newman Family Charitable Fund of the San Antonio Area Foundation

Barbie and Toby O'Connor

Susanna Morrow and Ross Olsaver

Jana Orsinger and William Orr III

Michael Perkins

Rick and Rachel Reyna

Roxana and Bruce Richardson

Corinna Holt Richter and J.B. Richter

Jeff and Anne Rochelle

Jenny and Rick Schimpff

Denise and Ken Schlaudt

Erika Ivanyi and Matthias Schubnell

Paula and Herb Stumberg

theKFORDgroup

Mary West and Richard Traylor

Bette and Jack Vexler

Ming and Hinnerk von Bargen

Robin and Jason Warman

Stephanie and Christopher Wilde

Susan Wilkins-Geery

Joan and W. Reed Williams

Julie and Peter Zacher

$1,000-$4,999

3M Foundation

Lisa Abel

Michael J. Adams

Helen C. Alexander

Allison and Alan Pyle Family Foundation

The Allison and Jaimie Hayne Family Fund

Karol Antrim

Kathleen and Jeff Bolner

Bolner's Fiesta Products, Inc.

Pamela Bonura

Elise and Craig Boyan

Laurie and Paul Bracher

Karen and Brian Brady

Emily and Patrick Brooks

Paula and Jim Callaway

Tommy Calvert

Jennifer and Crain Canavan Emma Cantu

Carla and Daniel Carlson

Sabina Carr

Kelly and Chris Carter

Center for Plant Conservation

Dean Hull and Laura Cheng

Barbara Clark

Rebecca Simmons and Richard Clemons

Penelope Speier and Edward Collins, III

Joe Crady

Charlotte A. Creamer Wiede and Jon Cutshall

D. Scott Bird Charitable Fund

Jaleh Daie

Charlotte and Vincent Dawson Karen and Joseph Dawson

Christine Ten Eyck and Gary Deaver

Caraline and Jay Dewald

Dorothy and Matt DiOrio

Ellie and Chuck Du Val

eEmployers Solutions, Inc.

Kathann E. El-Amin

Sandra Laurel Ford and Victor Estrada

Jessica Farrell Guy and Lisa Fielder

David R. Fisher

Mary and Lewis Fisher Kay Fitch

Caroline A. Forgason

Barbara Francis

Anne and Marco Gamboa

Magdalena and Raul E. Gaona

Jill and Carlos Garcia Marissa Garcia

Laura and Burnell Gates

Richard and Toni Goldsmith

The Gonzaba Foundation

Adriana and Christopher Grossman Helen K. Groves†

Gunn Family Foundation

Helen Cottingham and Emory Hamilton

Mary and Scott Hammargren

Judith Harrison

Melinda B. McFarland and Reid Hartson

Allison and Jaimie Hayne

Mary and William Henrich

Andrew and Maggie Herdeg

Nancy Higuchi

Karen J. Hixon

Janet and Rob Holliday

Juana E. Hollin-Avery

Terry Hookstra

Horizon Design & Development, Inc.

Pamela and Ryland Howard

Susan and John Kerr

Leigh and Greg King King Family Foundation

Jodi and Darrell Kirksey

Emily Knapp and James Book

Margaret and Robert Koors

Bonnie and John Korbell

Bekki and Greg Kowalski Mary Kunz

La Cantera Resort & Spa

Catherine and Richard Lange Marline and Clint Lawson

Marina Gonzales and Gerald Lee

Lee Michaels Fine JewelryNorth Star Mall

Carrie Gray and Christopher Lefelhocz

Thomas Leopold

Elizabeth Lorenz and Rick Ramos

M Capital Advisors

Shari Mao and Erik Weitzel

Elizabeth and Madison Marceau

Donna Marie

Cristina Martin

Susan Martin

Diana Martinez

Laura and Don McDonald

Celeste and William McEntire

Jane and Joe McFarlane

Amy and Ogden McGowan

Claire and Easton McNab

Sarah and Paul McSween III

Mercedes and Philip Fletcher Michael G Imber Architect PLLC Holly and Philip Miller

Weston Miller and Ryan Theuninck

Trudy and Ed Moore

Nancy Moorman

Meredith K. Morrill

Barbara and Jeff Moss

Sydney and Gregg Muenster

Native Plant Society of Texas

Native Plant Society of TexasFredericksburg Chapter Belinda and William Nixon Noisy Trumpet

Elaine Olivier

Elena and Luis Oseguera

Nancy Ruth Otto

Londi Paige

Patricia and Henrik Palme

Suzanne and Rusty Palmer

Margaret and Ryan Pape

Laura and Atlee Parr

Anne and Charles Parrish

Carolyn and Allan Paterson

Susan Mooberry and Gregory Patterson

Carol and Kirk Patterson

Joanna Perkins and Janet Payne

McLean and Marco Pena

Joanna and Keith Perkins

Liza Philpy

Phyllis Browning Company

Andrea and Karl Pichler

Victoria Pierce Shaub

Julianne and Michael Posey Mary Quandt

Krishna Reddy Sarah and Russell Reyes

Amy Rhodes Rowan Foundation, Inc.

RSM US LLP

Ethel T. Runion

San Antonio Direct Primary Care San Antonio River Authority

Laurie and William Saunders

Linda and Joseph Satel

Cassandra and Rey Sauceda William Scanlan, Jr.

Schultz & Co Landscapes, LLC Security Service Federal Credit Union

Meagan and Adam Shadfan Jordan Vexler Shannon and Albert Shannon

Patricia Shelby Gary Cox and Michael Simon Kim and Larry Smith

Dennis and Kay Stein Sarah and Sam Bell Steves II

Megan and Sam Bell Steves III

Alice and William Strunk Norton Stuart

Jennifer and Lloyd Tannenbaum

Donald Test

The Texas Cavaliers & Charitable Foundation

Susan and Larry Todd Bonnie and Stephen Tompsett Jessamyn Howe and Max Trautner Alice and John Troy Truist

Katherine and Kristopher Trumble

Lisa Uhl

Elky and Mark Van Es Matthew Ballard and Jason Vasquez Catharine and Jeff Vexler

Phyllis and Michael Viola Kelsey and Bryan Waters

Ann B. Watson

Weddle Gilmore Architects Karla and Jeff Wentworth Linda and Edward Whitacre Lorien and Marc Whyte Barbara and George Williams

Thomas Wirth

Worth Family Foundation

Sarah Elaine Kearney and Ryan Yaden Lulu and Marcos Zertuche

† Deceased

Cenizo Legacy Circle

Fern Lee "Missy" Finck

Elizabeth and Robert Lende

Barbara C. Kyse

Candace Andrews and Uwe Pontius

Kathleen Kingsley Robertson Gary Cox and Michael Simon Patricia A. Trenton

Members

THE PERENNIALS GIVING CIRCLES

as of November 30, 2022

HIBISCUS CIRCLE

$5,000

Ann Griffith Ash Judy H. Branch

Carla and John Brozovich

Laura and Burnell Gates Elizabeth and Robert Lende Carol and John McGuire Cynthia and Forrest Miller Elizabeth and Barry Roberts Kay and Dennis Stein Sandra and Scott Teeter Courtney Collins and Barrett Tuttle Joan and W. Reed Williams

Elise and Craig Boyan Karen and Brian Brady Katherine and Walter Brown Lauren and John Browning Sabina Carr

Kristina and Michael Moore

Trudy and Ed Moore

Barbara and Jeff Moss Sydney and Gregg Muenster

ESPERANZA CIRCLE

$2,500 Michael J. Adams Susan and Ernie Altgelt Kathleen and Jeff Bolner Emily and Patrick Brooks Paula and Jim Callaway Susan Mengden Ellis and Peter Ellis Jana and Jeff Galt Marty and Steve Hixon

Jodi and Darrell Kirksey Margaret and Bill Klesse Cally and Will Kothmann

Barbara C. Kyse

Destiny and Sean Maddox Holly and Philip Miller Nancy Moorman Meredith K. Morrill Judith N. Morton Cassandra and Rey Sauceda Meagan and Adam Shadfan Jordan Vexler Shannon and Albert Shannon

Weston Miller and Ryan Theuninck Mary West and Richard Traylor Bette and Jack Vexler Robin and Jason Warman Linda and Ed Whitacre Susan Wilkins-Geery

LANTANA CIRCLE

$1,000

Marcella and Jesus Javier Aguilar Lyn and Omar Akhil Claire and John Alexander Molly and Michael Amini Kennedy Hatfield-Asel and Aaron Asel

Mallory and Michael Baird

Margie and Morton Baird Katie and Tyson Becker

Carolyn and Jack Biegler Beverly and Mike Birnbaum Lisa and Tim Blonkvist Lorene Bocquin Emily Knapp and James Book

Aida Castro-Snyder and Edward Snyder, III Rea Ferandez and Justin Chung Barbara Clark Sarah and Jon Cochran Anita and John Comander Charlotte A. Creamer Wiede and Jon Cutshall Karen and Joseph Dawson Charlotte and Vincent Dawson Christine Ten Eyck and Gary Deaver Caroline and Mike Decherd Caraline and Jay Dewald Dorothy and Matt DiOrio Elizabeth Lorenz and Rick Ramos Dominguez Ellie and Chuck Du Val Janice and Thomas Dunlap Gayle and Walter Embrey Joel K. Erben Fern Lee Finck Mary and Lewis Fisher Burkley and Jonny Fitzsimons Kay Fitch and Katie Free Cina Forgason Lou Celia and Don Frost Anne and Marco Gamboa Jill and Carlos Garcia Magdalena and Raul Gaona Toni and Richard Goldsmith Karen and Jim Greenwood Adrianna and Chris Grossman Helen and Emory Hamilton Melinda B. McFarland and Reid Hartson

Allison and Jaime Hayne Mary and Bill Henrich Maggie and Andrew Herdeg Tim Hero Karen J. Hixon Mary Arno and Peter Hollimon Terry Hookstra

Lily and Jeffrey Johnson Susan and John Kerr Blakely and Coleman Kneisley Margaret F. and Robert M. Koors

Bonnie and John Korbell Rachael and J Kuper Susan and William Lane Kitty and Rich Lange Jean and Steve Lee Carrie Gray and Christopher Lefelhocz

Kelsey Waters and Bryan Litchford Norma Macias

Elizabeth and Madison Marceau Marie and Ryan Mays Celeste and William McEntire

Amy and Ogden McGowan

Cora and Wally McGowan

Jill McGowin

Nicola and Michael McLaughlin Vicki McLaughlin

Leslie Negley Ann and Chico Newman Elaine Oliver

Polly and Carl Olson

Jana Orsinger and Bill Orr

Elena and Luis Oseguera Nancy Ruth Otto

Suzanne and Rusty Palmer

Londi Paige

Margaret and Ryan Pape

Anne and Chuck Parrish

Carol and Kirk Patterson

Susan Mooberry and Gregory Patterson

McLean and Marco Pena Michael Perkins

Andrea and Karl Pichler

Candace Andrews and Uwe Pontius

Julianne and Michael Posey Mary Quandt

Rachel and Rick Reyna Amy Rhodes

Corinna Holt Richter and J.B. Richter

Anne and Jeff Rochelle

Heather and Randy Rodgers

William Scanlan, Jr.

Denise and Ken Schlaudt

Martha Seeligson

Lyn and Peter C. Selig

Ann and Rick Shaw

Dudley Snyder

Debi Sovereign

Sarah and Sam Bell Steves II

Jennifer and Lloyd Tannenbaum

Donald Test

Leah and Steve Thomas

Bonnie and Stephen Tompsett

Erica Blasé and Alisa Travis

Katherine and Kris Trumble

Lisa Uhl

Elky and Marc Van Es

Claire and George Vaughan

Phyllis and Michael Viola

Ming and Hennerk Von Bargen

Suzanne and Dick Wade

Ann B. Watson

Roberta Churchin and Bob Webster

Shari Mao and Erik Weitzel

Stephanie and Christopher Wilde

Julie and Warren Wilkinson

Barbara and George Williams

Thomas Wirth

Ann and Forrest Word

Mary and Robert Worth

Sarah Elaine Kearney and Ryan Yaden

Lynn and Thad Ziegler

For more information, about Perennials, visit: SABOT.ORG/ SUPPORT/GIVING-CIRCLES

Splendor in the

THE 15TH ANNUAL SPLENDOR IN THE GARDEN gala on September 22, 2022 welcomed over 600 guests in dreamy floral prints and formal garden attire.

Board of Directors member, Cally Kothmann and her husband Will Kothmann, chaired the 2022 gala. Working with a dedicated steering committee, their efforts produced the most successful fundraising event in the Garden’s 42-year history. During a flurry of fundraising led by Master of Ceremonies Rick Shaw, guests raised their paddles to support children’s programming at the Garden, raising over $100,000 in just 14 minutes.

The Greehey Family Foundation and Mays Family Foundation were recognized as the 15th Anniversary gala’s Signature Sponsors by CEO Sabina Carr, along with all table sponsors, underwriters, contributors, and guests who made the spectacular evening possible.

SAVE THE DATE! MEGAN AND SAM BELL STEVES, III WILL CHAIR THE 2023 SPLENDOR IN THE GARDEN ON THURSDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2023.

DONOR SPOTLIGHT

THE SAN ANTONIO BOTANICAL GARDEN IS DELIGHTED TO ANNOUNCE A NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH TEXAS WILDLIFE ASSOCIATION, generously funded by the Elma Dill Russell Spencer Foundation – the first of its kind in Texas. Support from the Foundation enables the Garden to educate the next generation of Texans on the importance of water conservation and protecting open lands. This

three-year pilot program will teach 39,000 K-12 students about the unique nature and value of the Edwards Aquifer utilizing the story of water shared in the Family Adventure Garden. “We want to make sure that young people understand that the story of water does not begin and end with the turn of a faucet,” said Sabina Carr, CEO of the San Antonio Botanical Garden.

The program will provide tools for Texas’ future leaders to make informed decisions on how to protect, conserve, and steward essential natural water resources. Spencer Foundation Trustee, Steve Lewis, shared, “San Antonio youth will learn that the water cycle is not a ride at Sea World! Stewardship of private lands over the Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone directly affects the water in their shower faucet. The end result will teach students to value open space in Texas.”

Plans are now underway with participating students visiting the Garden in March 2023.

EXCLUSIVE Members Only EVENTS

BLOOMS & BEST BUDS

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11 | ALL DAY

Enjoy the Garden’s blooms with your best buds. Members can bring one friend for free. FEE: INCLUDED WITH MEMBERSHIP

MEMBER MIXER

SATURDAY, MARCH 11 | 10 A.M. – 2 P.M. Get to know your fellow members. Enjoy lawn games, live music, and Celebrate Pollinators activities. FEE: INCLUDED WITH MEMBERSHIP

EASTER BUNNY PHOTOS & STORYTIME

SATURDAY, MARCH 25 | 8 A.M – 12 P.M.

Hop over to the Auld House for pictures with the Easter Bunny! This event will utilize timed ticketing. Arrive five minutes prior to your ticket time. Storytime at 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. FEE: $15

WILDFLOWER PORTRAITS

SATURDAY, APRIL 1 | 4 – 7 P.M.

Sign up for a 7-minute professional photography session with the Garden's blooming wildflowers as your backdrop.

FEE: $50 PER SESSION

BOOZY BOUQUETS:

Enjoy a cocktail while creating unique flower arrangements with the help of Indigo Bloom’s creator and founder Courtney Warden. 21+

MULE IT OVER

THURSDAY, JANUARY 12 | 6 – 7:30 P.M.

Themed cocktail: Festive Moscow Mule

WHAT IN CARNATION?

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9 | 6 – 7:30 P.M.

Themed cocktail: Cowboy Cosmo

GREEN, GREEN, GREENERY

THURSDAY, MARCH 9 | 6 – 7:30 P.M.

Themed cocktail: Irish Margarita

FEE: $70 INDIVIDUAL TICKET, $125 COUPLE TICKET Dates subject to change. For events requiring reservations, watch for exclusive member emails with more details.

WISH WATER LANTERNS

FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2023 | 6 – 8:30 P.M.

Send a wish for the year to come as you release a lantern into a Garden pond. Enjoy live music and luminaria-lit pathways. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Each ticket includes one lantern.

CUPIDS AND COCKTAILS

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2023

7 – 10 P.M.

Celebrate love for a night of dancing, cocktails, and sweet treats. Enjoy remixes of favorite songs from every era and dance the night away in The Betty Kelso Center. Cocktails and small bites available for purchase.

New this year!

CONCERT IN THE GARDEN

Join us for a can’t miss concert in the Garden. Look for details this spring.

Please check SABOT.ORG for the cost of special event admission.

Educational EVENTS

Celebrate Adaptations!

SATURDAY, JANUARY 28 | 10 A.M. – 2 P.M. To celebrate a new year and new happenings, learn how plants and wildlife have adapted to their climates and changing seasons

Celebrate Orchids!

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18 | 10 A.M. – 2 P.M. Be dazzled by the bold, vivid, and colorful world of orchids on display. Explore the world’s largest family of flowering plants with hands-on activities.

Family Flashlight Night

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24 | 6 – 8:30 P.M.

Bring a flashlight and experience the nocturnal side of the Garden. Explore the Garden by moonlight, find your way through the light maze, and enjoy campfire stories.

Celebrate Pollinators!

SATURDAY, MARCH 11 | 10 A.M. – 2 P.M. Celebrate hardworking bees and pollinators with hands-on activities and learning opportunities.

VIVA Botanica!

SATURDAY, APRIL 22 | 10 A.M. – 2 P.M. Viva Fiesta! This family-friendly event includes hands-on activities, tastings, and performances.

PROGRAMS

RECURRING PROGRAMS

Sustainability and Design Guided Tour $

FRIDAY, JANUARY 6 | 10 – 11:30 A.M.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3 | 10 – 11:30 A.M.

FRIDAY, MARCH 3 | 10 – 11:30 A.M.

FRIDAY, APRIL 7 | 10 – 11:30 A.M.

Learn how the Garden uses infrastructure, architecture, and plants to conserve resources and the importance of building sustainable communities on this guided walk examining diverse features.

Texas WaterSaver

Gardening Guided Tour

THURSDAY, JANUARY 19 | 10 – 11:30 A.M.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16 | 10 – 11:30 A.M.

THURSDAY, MARCH 16 | 10 – 11:30 A.M. THURSDAY, APRIL 20 | 10 – 11:30 A.M.

Be inspired and learn about the best seasonal plants and design tips for creating a beautiful, drought-tolerant landscape.

Texas Bird Watching Guided Tour $

SATURDAY, JANUARY 21 | 9:15 – 11 A.M.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18 | 9:15 – 11 A.M.

SATURDAY, MARCH 18 | 9:15 – 11 A.M.

SATURDAY, APRIL 15 | 9:15 – 11 A.M.

Learn about birds at the Garden, their characteristics, requirements such as food, nesting, and protection, and the native plants that attract them.

Ethnobotany of Native Plants

Guided Tour $

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 18 | 10 – 11:30 A.M.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15 | 10 – 11:30 A.M.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15 | 10 – 11:30 A.M.

TUESDAY, APRIL 18 | 10 – 11:30 A.M.

Explore the Texas Native Trails and investigate the diverse relationships people have had, and still have, with plants in Texas.

Pop-Up Culinary Demo

SELECT SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS

10:30 A.M., 11 A.M., 11:30 A.M., 12:30 P.M.

Stop by the Outdoor CHEF Teaching Kitchen for a Pop-Up Culinary Demo. The Garden chef will showcase fresh seasonal produce and herbs in a delectable recipe. Gather ideas and inspiration for the next time you cook.

Unless indicated, programs are free for members and included with Garden admission.

PROGRAMS

JANUARY

Family Morning Hike $

SATURDAY, JANUARY 7 | 8:30 – 10:30 A.M. Explore the garden with a trained guide to see garden wildlife and plants in the morning sunshine. Participants will also have the chance to observe bird species with binoculars.

Family Cooking: Bento Box $ SATURDAY, JANUARY 7 | 12:30 – 2 P.M. Learn how to turn kids’ meals into a fun experience with food shapes and characters.

Cooking from the Larder $ SATURDAY, JANUARY 7 | 3 – 4:30 P.M.

From meats to pickles, learn recipes that use ingredients traditionally stored in a larder.

School Field Trips

The Garden offers a variety of exciting learning adventures for students of all ages. All programs are TEKS-based, active, and age-appropriate, so educators can feel confident in choosing an experience to enrich class curriculum. Funding is available. Field trip requests can be made at SABOT.ORG under the Learn/Educator & Schools page.

Meditation in the Garden $ SELECT SATURDAYS

The Still State Meditation & Mindfulness provides bi-weekly meditation classes.

Little Sprouts Hike FREE TUESDAYS, MARCH – OCTOBER 10 – 10:30 A.M.

Each hike features a different naturebased lesson designed to inspire a love and appreciation of the natural world. All hikes begin at the Garden Gift Shop. Some trails are unpaved; all-terrain strollers are recommended. Ages 5 and under.

Nature Exploration in the Family Adventure Garden FREE WEDNESDAYS, MARCH – OCTOBER 10 – 10:30 A.M.

Each week features a different nature-play activity designed to inspire a love of nature while engaging in sensory experiences outdoors. Explorations begin at the lawn near Prickly Pear Pavilion in the Family Adventure Garden. Ages 5 and under.

Storytime in the Garden FREE THURSDAYS, MARCH – OCTOBER 10 – 10:30 A.M.

Each session features different naturethemed books designed to stimulate young minds and foster an appreciation for the great outdoors. Families are welcome to bring a blanket for sitting. Ages 5 and under

Take My Broth Away: Broths and Soups Class $ SUNDAY, JANUARY 8 | 2 – 3:30 P.M. Learn to brew delicious and healthy golden liquids to warm you up.

Improving Your Soil FREE WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11 | 10 A.M. – 12 P.M.

Join Master Gardener Bill Swantner as he explores Bexar County soils, various soil amendments, and ways to keep a stable environment in the soil.

Foodie Cinema: The Silence of the Lambs (1991) $ FRIDAY, JANUARY 13 | 7 – 9:15 P.M.

Enjoy the soothing voice of Dr. Hannibal Lecter as you enjoy dishes and drinks inspired by the movie. 21+

Family Gardening Workshop: Plant a Pizza Garden $ SATURDAY, JANUARY 14 | 11 A.M. – 12:30 P.M.

Families will plant their own container garden with the essential herbal flavors for making delicious pizza. Learn how to care for and harvest herbs, and other uses for herbs.

Aloha Va Mana Cultural Living Arts and Science of Action Healing Series: Kihei Fabric Art & Mana Energy Flow $ SATURDAY, JANUARY 14 | 1 – 3 P.M.

In this experience, join Kahu Loeka and Kumu (Teaching) Artists to learn how living arts can co-create sacred healing moments for oneself, family, and teams.

Date Night: Pasta La Vista $ SATURDAY, JANUARY 14 | 7 – 8:30 P.M. Now is your chance to learn how to make pasta dishes with your partner. 21+

Family Cooking: The Science of Taste $ SATURDAY, JANUARY 21 | 12:30 – 2 P.M. Kids will learn the science behind what makes food taste so great.

Garden Craft Cocktails: Let the Good Times Aperol $ FRIDAY, JANUARY 27 | 7 – 8:30 P.M. Learn how to use Garden ingredients

to create flavorful, classic, and creative cocktails. 21+

Chopped Challenge: Date Night Edition $ SATURDAY, JANUARY 28 | 7 – 8:30 P.M. Follow a recipe and create a dish (with a few tricks) to present to the judges. Will you win, or will you be chopped? 21+

FEBRUARY

Healthy Trees and Certified Arborist Preparation Course $

FRIDAYS, FEBRUARY 3, 10, 17, 24 9 A.M. – 4 P.M.

Four-session, 32-hour course to prepare arborists for ISA Certification or citizens who want to improve tree health and the value of trees. Topics include tree biology, installation, nutrition, plant disorders, and safety.

Family Morning Hike $ SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4 | 8:30 – 10:30 A.M. Explore the garden with a trained guide to see garden wildlife and plants in the morning sunshine. Participants will also have the chance to observe bird species with binoculars.

Family Cooking: Where the Wild Things Are $ SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4 | 12:30 – 2 P.M.

Your little wild things will learn to make delicious food approved by Max and his wild crew.

Foodie Matinee: Chocolat (2000) $ SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4 | 3 – 4:30 P.M. This afternoon will be full of “unrefined cacao nibs from Guatemala, to awaken the passions”. Enjoy culinary treats that will inspire love. 21+

Sweetology: Chocolate Edition $ SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 5 | 2 – 3:30 P.M.

Discover why the Aztecs and Mayans loved cocoa so much. Learn how to transform this treat into a dish fit for the gods… or your significant other. 21+

Orchid Month – Guided Tour $ SUNDAYS, FEBRUARY 5 & 12 | 2 – 3:30 P.M.

Join Chelsea Crisler for a guided tour of orchid displays including the conservatory and greenhouses to learn how the horticultural team cares for the orchids.

Spring Gardening Tasks FREE WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 8 | 10 A.M. – 12 P.M.

Join Lynn Cox, Bexar County Master Gardener, to learn what can be done to refresh, renew, and revitalize your garden this spring.

Native Orchid Conservation Presentations and Panel Discussion FREE SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11 | 9 A.M. – 12 P.M.

An in-depth morning about the current research and efforts in orchid conservation across the country featuring presentations by four specialists from the region and nation.

Family Gardening Workshop: Botanical Bath Bonanza $

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11 | 1 – 2:30 P.M. Create your own botanical exfoliating sugar scrub and moisturizing balm while learning how to use plant-based ingredients to make bath products.

DIY: Vanilla Extract $ SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18 | 12 – 1 P.M. Participants will learn about the history of vanilla and craft their own bottle of vanilla extract while enjoying a refreshing cocktail featuring vanilla. 21+

Introduction to Ikebana with Orchids $ SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18 | 2 – 3:30 P.M. Learn the fundamentals of Ikebana, the 500-year-old Japanese art of flower arranging.

Family Cooking: Ratatouille's Anyone Can Cook - Dinner Edition $ SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18 | 3 – 4:30 P.M. Your little ones will learn that indeed anyone can cook as they prepare a kidfriendly dinner.

MARCH

Foraging for Arrangements $

THURSDAY, MARCH 2 | 6 – 8 P.M.

Join Chelsea Crisler to forage through the Garden learning about using different plants, colors, textures, and size to create beautiful and dynamic arrangements from the plants growing around you.

Family Morning Hike $

SATURDAY, MARCH 4 | 8:30 – 10:30 A.M.

Explore the garden with a trained guide to see garden wildlife and plants in the morning sunshine. Participants will also have the chance to observe bird species with binoculars.

WaterSaver Landscape Design School $ SATURDAY, MARCH 4 | 9 A.M. – 12 P.M.

Four sessions of speakers ending with an optional one-on-one consultation. Topics include how to utilize landscape areas with a cohesive design, assessing planting conditions, and selecting beautiful plant material to create low water use gardens that will thrive in San Antonio. WaterSaver Rewards Eligible.

Family Cooking: Ratatouille’s Anyone Can Cook - Breakfast Edition $ SATURDAY, MARCH 4 | 12:30 – 2 P.M.

Your little ones will cook some of Remy’s favorite kid-friendly breakfast dishes.

Chopped Challenge in the Culinary Garden $ FRIDAY, MARCH 10 | 7 – 8:30 P.M.

Follow a recipe and create a dish (with a few tricks) to present to the judges. Will you win, or will you be chopped? 21+

Spring Break Plant Sale $ SATURDAY – SUNDAY, MARCH 11 – 12

A wide variety of native plants, succulents, grasses, and pollinator-friendly plants will be available for purchase.

Family Night Hike $ FRIDAY, MARCH 17 | 7:30 – 9:30 P.M.

Children’s Vegetable Garden: Spring 2023

SATURDAYS, FEBRUARY 18 – JUNE 3

8:30 – 10:30 A.M.

The Children’s Vegetable Garden Program is an opportunity for children ages 7-16 to grow their own vegetables with the help of educators and volunteers. Each family is allotted a 3.5’ x 28’ garden plot and will take the vegetables they grow in the Garden home. Every Saturday meeting features a planting activity or presentation to connect children to plants, nature, and the food they eat.

Discover the Garden’s creatures and plants at night on this guided hike. Bring a flashlight and explore the garden with a trained guide to see nocturnal wildlife and identify bat species with a bat detector.

Family Cooking: Mad Hatter's Tea Party $ SATURDAY, MARCH 18 | 12:30 – 2 P.M.

Come dressed to impress in your best Alice in Wonderland costume. Tea and treats will be served.

APRIL

Morning and Sunset Flow with Alamo City Yoga $

SATURDAYS IN APRIL | 9 – 10 A.M. MONDAYS IN APRIL | 6 – 7 P.M.

Start with a 10-minute meditative walk through tranquil space, followed by a

50-minute intentional flow. The yoga portion of the practice will be a sequence of seated, standing, and balancing postures, syncing breath, and movement.

Family Morning Hike $

SATURDAY, APRIL 1 | 8:30 – 10:30 A.M.

Explore the garden with a trained guide to see garden wildlife and plants in the morning sunshine. Participants will also have the chance to observe bird species with binoculars.

Family Cooking: Mystery Quesadillas $ SATURDAY, APRIL 1 | 12:30 – 1:30 P.M. Your little ones will explore new flavors and try to guess what is inside their tasty tortillas for April Fool’s Day.

Fundamentals of Floral Arranging $ THURSDAY, APRIL 13 | 6 – 7:30 P.M. Join Chelsea Crisler to learn the fundamentals of floral arranging and how to take grocery store flowers and elevate them to a stunning display.

Family Night Hike $ FRIDAY, APRIL 14 | 7:30 – 9:30 P.M.

Discover the Garden’s creatures and plants at night on this guided hike. Bring a flashlight and explore the garden with a trained guide to see nocturnal wildlife and identify bat species with a bat detector.

WaterSaver Landscape Design School $ SATURDAY, APRIL 15 | 9 A.M. – 12 P.M.

Four sessions of speakers ending with an optional one-on-one consultation. Topics include how to utilize landscape areas with a cohesive design, assessing planting conditions, and selecting beautiful plant material to create low water use gardens that will thrive in San Antonio. WaterSaver Rewards Eligible.

Family Gardening Workshop: Wild About Wildflowers $

SATURDAY, APRIL 15 | 11 A.M. – 12:30 P.M.

Make wildflower seed balls, think like a botanist to identify flowers, and hike through the Texas Native Trails.

VIVA Botanica Plant Sale $

SATURDAY – SUNDAY, APRIL 22 – 23

A wide variety of native plants, succulents, grasses, and pollinator-friendly plants will be available for purchase.

Dates and times subject to change. Visit SABOT.ORG for the latest updates, pricing, ticket, and registration information.

Support for youth educational programs and school tours is generously provided by Hearst Foundations, Valero, The Greehey Family Foundation, Tres Grace Family Foundation, University Health System, Joan Cheever and Dennis Quinn, Lowe Foundation, V.H. McNutt Memorial Foundation, Inc., The Najim Charitable Foundation, Martha Mares Lebo Children’s Education Fund of the San Antonio Area Foundation, Toyota Motor Manufacturing Texas, Faye L. and William L. Cowden Charitable Foundation and San Antonio Water System.

BECOME A VOLUNTEER!

The San Antonio Botanical Garden’s tranquil 38-acres serve as a living museum of plant life for guests to appreciate, learn from, and enjoy.

Volunteers are essential to fulfilling the Garden’s mission of enriching lives through plants and nature.

Opportunities are available based on seasonality and capacity; some opportunities require training and/ or certificates. Background checks are required. The minimum age to volunteer is 14.

For more information, email the Volunteer Specialist at jtorrez@sabot.org or call 210.536.1344. GARDEN AND GIFT SHOP HOURS

555 FUNSTON PLACE SAN ANTONIO, TX 78209 210.536.1400 SABOT.ORG

Members only 8 – 9 A.M. January – February 9 A.M. – 5 P.M. | Monday – Sunday March – April 9 A.M. – 7 P.M. | Monday – Sunday

MISSION Enriching lives through plants and nature.