Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Research Center

This garden and research center, created by Lady Bird Johnson in 1982 as part of a national beautification project, is the only institution in the nation dedicated exclusively to conserving and promoting the use of plants native to North America, including 75 species of wildflowers.

The center is housed in the visitors gallery, constructed of native materials. A brief film explains the uniqueness of this non-profit center. Nearby, exhibits like "nature's medicine cabinet" illustrate plant remedies while "Ralph the talking lawnmower" features facts on native grasses.

The 42-acre site includes numerous research display gardens, landscaped areas, theme gardens, preserved woodlands, and natural grasslands. Volunteers and scientists study and preserve North American shrubs, grasses, vines, trees, and wildflowers.

A clearinghouse annually answers over 10,000 questions and requests for information about cutting water bills, controlling soil erosion, and reducing pesticide use by planting home grown species.

Directions: Located at 4801 La Cross Ave. Take Slaughter Lane six miles west of I-35 at Exit 227 to the intersection of Loop 1 South. Turn left on Loop 1 and continue southto LaCross Avenue; entrance on right.

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