So here goes, a visit to the Mize Azalea Garden on the campus of Stephen F. Austin University (part of the Texas state university system). The garden is a collection of azaleas, ornamental trees like magnolia and red maple, and camellias. It consists of several acres, over a mile of trails, many sections, and an adjoining arboretum. The Mize family is a local Nacogdoches family that ran a department store from 1925 until recently. The garden is named after Ruby Mize.
There are many varieties of both azaleas and camellias here. The colors are brilliant. The shapes and sizes of blooms are amazing.
The ornamental trees are also beautiful.
Some of the blooms remind me of orchids, the coloration is so varied.
This is a heavenly place during late March and early April. People come from all around Texas to see the gardens.
My companion was willing to sit for a few shots. Her family has not seen anything new lately, so it was time.
The camellias and ornamentals were particularly graceful.
It is just not possible to get tired of the shapes, colors, and sizes.
We visited just before the peak of blooms. A docent told us that in a week it would be even brighter and more beautiful.
We found that a bit hard to believe, though.
Over a little bridge we found the edge of the arboretum, and a small shelter with a swing.
Then it was back to the camellias.
Each bloom seemed more perfect than the last.
The sun played perfectly on the azaleas.
A final bit of perfection and we were on our way.
