2023 Peak Bloom
The NPS judged that the cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin reached peak bloom on March 23, 2023.
The colder weather of the past couple of days has slowed things down, and the saucer magnolias at the Enid A. Haupt Garden are generally in much the same shape that they were a couple of days ago.
They're starting to flower, but they're not in full bloom. There are still plenty yet to open.
How They Look This Morning
These were all taken this morning to give a general sense of where they are in the blooming process.
Where to Find Them
If you haven't been to the Enid A. Haupt Garden before, it's right behind the Smithsonian Castle (or, as my kids call it, Hogwarts). It is a gated garden and closes at night but opens early in the morning.
There are several sections to the garden, including the Moongate Garden. The magnolias are throughout–you can't miss them.
Things Worth Knowing
- Saucer magnolias are also often known as tulip magnolias. Magnolia x soulangeana, if you want to get technical.
- They typically come out around a couple of weeks before the famous Yoshino cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin.
- You can find saucer magnolias all over the region. Three notable locations within easy walking distance of the Tidal Basin are the Enid A. Haupt Garden (behind the Smithsonian Castle on the National Mall), the George Mason Memorial (near the Jefferson Memorial), and Rawlins Park.
- You can see an example of them in full bloom here.
Local Charity Spotlight
Looking to give back? Here's one of the local charities (or with local links) that is well worth contributing to.
Bridges to Independence
Bridges to Independence leads individuals and families out of homelessness and into stable, independent futures.
It's based in Arlington, VA, and focuses on the local area.
You can donate directly on their website and learn more about their mission and impact.
