Tulsa Botanic Garden's 'Winter Bloom' Exhibit Delights Visitors

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, February 9th 2026 at 19:53 GMT by Tulsa World
      Locales: Oklahoma, Kansas, UNITED STATES

Tulsa Botanic Garden Defies Winter Blues with Extended 'Winter Bloom' & Expansion Plans

TULSA - As February deepens, bringing with it the familiar greys of winter, the Tulsa Botanic Garden is proving that beauty can - and does - thrive even in the coldest months. The garden's highly successful 'Winter Bloom' exhibit, launched on January 20th, continues to draw crowds seeking respite from the seasonal doldrums, and signals a broader commitment from the garden to year-round engagement.

Originally conceived as a short-term display highlighting the resilience of certain plant species, 'Winter Bloom' has exceeded expectations, becoming a popular destination for both seasoned horticultural enthusiasts and families simply seeking a colorful escape. The exhibit centers around a stunning array of camellias, rhododendrons, and winter-blooming jasmine, offering a vibrant counterpoint to the typically barren winter landscape.

"We've been absolutely thrilled with the response to 'Winter Bloom'," explains Dr. Rita Shannon, Director of Horticulture at the Tulsa Botanic Garden. "Our initial goal was simply to provide a bit of joy during a time when many people are feeling down. To see so many visitors connecting with the plants and appreciating the unexpected beauty of winter has been incredibly rewarding."

The star of the show, without a doubt, is the camellia collection. Boasting a remarkable range of hues - from pristine whites and delicate pinks to bold reds and striking variegated patterns - the camellias offer a visual feast. Dr. Shannon notes that the garden's collection includes both Japanese camellias, known for their elegant, formal blooms, and species varieties offering a more natural, wild appearance. Careful cultivation and microclimate management within the garden allow these normally late-blooming plants to flourish throughout the winter months.

Alongside the camellias, the exhibit features a selection of hardy rhododendrons and azaleas, selected for their winter hardiness and ability to produce blooms even in frigid temperatures. Winter jasmine, with its delicate, star-shaped yellow flowers and sweet fragrance, provides a sensory delight. The careful arrangement of these plants creates a tapestry of color and texture, transforming a normally dormant corner of the garden into a vibrant oasis.

But the 'Winter Bloom' exhibit is more than just a visual spectacle. It's part of a larger strategic initiative by the Tulsa Botanic Garden to become a true four-season destination. "For too long, many botanical gardens have been viewed as primarily 'spring and summer' attractions," Dr. Shannon says. "We're determined to change that perception. We believe that every season has something to offer, and we're committed to curating experiences that celebrate the unique beauty of each one."

Looking ahead, the Tulsa Botanic Garden has ambitious plans for expansion, including the development of a dedicated winter garden - a permanent showcase of cold-hardy plants and winter-interest features. This new garden will build upon the success of 'Winter Bloom,' offering an even more extensive and immersive winter experience for visitors. Preliminary designs include a snowdrop walk, a collection of winterberry shrubs with their bright red berries, and a network of paths winding through evergreen trees and shrubs. Funding for the project is currently being sought through private donations and grants.

The current 'Winter Bloom' exhibit runs through February 28th, with the garden open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free, making it an accessible and affordable outing for families and individuals. Beyond the 'Winter Bloom' display, the garden also offers a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year. Visitors are encouraged to check the garden's website, [ tulsabotanic.com ], for details on upcoming workshops, guided tours, and seasonal celebrations. The garden is quickly establishing itself not just as a display of natural beauty, but as a vital community resource promoting horticulture, conservation, and wellbeing.