A heartwarming sight unfolds as a grandmother and her granddaughter joyfully stroll around the arboretum, surrounded by vibrant azaleas in full bloom. The little one marvels at the colorful spectacle, while the grandmother shares her love for nature, creating cherished memories amidst the floral splendor.

The green anole (Anolis carolinensis), often mistaken for a chameleon due to its color-changing abilities, is a common and slender lizard with a long tail. Its color ranges from gray-brown to bright green, and males may display a pink dewlap. Found in the eastern third of Texas and the southeastern U.S., they thrive in greenery, moist environments, and can be spotted on trees, shrubs, walls, and fences.

Meet the green anole (Anolis carolinensis), a fascinating lizard known for its ability to change color and adapt to various environments. Slender and agile, it possesses a long, slender tail and a narrow head. While commonly mistaken for a chameleon, it is not a true chameleon. Found throughout the southeastern U.S., including the eastern third of Texas, this lizard thrives in greenery, seeks occasional shade, and prefers a moist habitat. From gray-brown to bright green, their coloration varies, and the males sport a pink dewlap when displaying. Whether perched on trees, shrubs, walls, or fences, the green anole adds a vibrant touch to its surroundings.

Discover the enchanting Aquilegia chrysantha var. hinckleyana, also known as Hinckley's Golden Columbine, at the Stephen F. Austin State University Arboretum. This exquisite member of the Buttercup Family (Ranunculaceae) boasts canary yellow flowers with distinct spurs, standing out against fern-like and delicate foliage. Growing up to three feet tall, this rare columbine variety is native only to the Capote Falls in the Sierra Vieja Mountains of Presidio County, Texas. Its scarcity in the wild contrasts with its popularity in the nursery trade, valued for its shade tolerance, attractive leaves, and clear yellow blooms. A true gem to cherish and preserve.

The Imperial Queen Azalea (Azalea x 'Monal') is a majestic evergreen shrub, standing tall at 4-6 feet. During spring, its exquisite light pink, double flowers with charming dark pink freckles in the throat enchant the landscape. With a preference for partial shade to full sun, this warm weather beauty thrives in plant zones 8-11, adding regal elegance to any garden.

In the photograph, an informational sign stands proudly amidst the picturesque azalea garden at the Mast Arboretum, Stephen F. Austin State University. The sign provides valuable insights about the beautiful piedmont azalea (Rhododendron canescens), describing its characteristics as a multi-stemmed upright spreading shrub that thrives in partial shade to full sun and prefers well-drained, moist to very dry acidic soils. Visitors can learn about the fascinating features and care requirements of this stunning plant while enjoying the breathtaking scenery of the azalea garden.

Behold the stunning sight of a vibrant flower bed at the Stephen F. Austin State University Arboretum, adorned with a kaleidoscope of azaleas in different hues. A magnificent display of nature's artistry, these azaleas present a delightful array of colors, creating a breathtaking and picturesque scene for all to enjoy.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Rosa banksiae, commonly known as Lady Banks Rose, at the Mast Arboretum in Stephen F. Austin State University. This thornless climbing rose delights with clusters of double yellow blooms in spring or early summer, emitting a gentle fragrance that captivates garden enthusiasts. Perfect for garden walls and trellises, this stunning ornamental adds a touch of elegance to the landscape. With its dark green foliage, smooth brick red bark, and burgundy branches, Lady Banks Rose is a delightful sight to behold in the arboretum's serene surroundings.

Longbract Spiderwort (Tradescantia bracteata), also known as prairie spiderwort, thrives in the northern and central Great Plains and Mississippi Valley regions of the United States. With its mesmerizing purple flowers, this native species brings vibrant colors to the landscape. From May to July, its blossoms enchant onlookers and highlight its ornamental significance.

Tradescantia bracteata, commonly known as the longbract spiderwort or prairie spiderwort, graces the northern and central Great Plains and Mississippi Valley regions of the United States. With its striking purple flowers, this species adds a burst of color to the landscape. Blooming from May to July, it captivates admirers with its beauty and is cherished for its ornamental value.

In this captivating photograph, the Arboretum showcases the beauty of nature as towering green trees stand majestically adorned with elegant white flowers. The enchanting sight offers a serene and picturesque view, epitomizing the tranquility and splendor of the Arboretum's landscape.

Meet the awe-inspiring Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) at Stephen F. Austin State University Arboretum—a magnificent tree that graces the landscape with its grandeur. Standing tall at 60 feet with a spread of 45 feet, this majestic beauty captivates onlookers with its stunning display of fragrant white cup-shaped flowers during spring through summer. The large, glossy leaves with brown undersides add to its allure, making it a perfect accent tree with a neat and upright growth habit. As fall approaches, the foliage transitions to a rich coppery-bronze hue, and showy red pods appear, adding further charm to this elegant specimen.

In this captivating photograph, the Arboretum showcases the beauty of nature as towering green trees stand majestically adorned with elegant white flowers. The enchanting sight offers a serene and picturesque view, epitomizing the tranquility and splendor of the Arboretum's landscape.

Embrace the enchanting allure of 'Autumn Moon' azalea with its bright pinkish-purple flowers, boasting white throats that deepen with maturity. Standing at a graceful height of 3 feet, this evergreen shrub delights the senses with its late spring blooms, thriving in partial shade to sun. Ideal for warmer climates within zones 7-9, 'Autumn Moon' adds a celestial touch to your garden landscape.

Draft of an article about the Mast Arboretum at Stephen F. Austin State University that was published in the March 2008 issue of Texas Highways magazine.

In this heartwarming scene at Stephen F. Austin State University Arboretum, an old woman enjoys a leisurely stroll along the walking path, accompanied by her faithful canine companion. The trail, flanked by long, lush green trees, invites more nature enthusiasts to join in, forming a harmonious gathering of people and pets, all basking in the serene beauty of the arboretum's natural surroundings.

Discover the beauty of the piedmont azalea, a multi-stemmed upright shrub, reaching up to 10 feet in height. Admire its resilience to varying light conditions and well-drained, acidic soils, showcased in the serene surroundings of Mast Arboretum, Stephen F. Austin State University.

Witness the enchanting beauty of the pink azaleas at Stephen F. Austin State University Arboretum. These vibrant deciduous shrubs, adorned with funnel-shaped flowers flushed in shades of pink, create a breathtaking landscape and emit a delightful fragrance that captivates visitors during their peak bloom in spring.

Discover the captivating Aesculus pavia, also known as Red Buckeye or Scarlet Buckeye, in the Horse-Chestnut Family (Hippocastanaceae) at the Stephen F. Austin State University Arboretum. This handsome shrub or small tree showcases thyrses of deep red or yellow, bell-shaped flowers in early spring. With show-stopping flower clusters measuring 6-10 inches long, this native plant spans from North Carolina to Florida, extending west to central Texas and as far north as Illinois. Its glossy dark green leaves and striking blooms are sure to leave a lasting impression. However, take caution, as the seeds and young shoots are poisonous if ingested. A true beauty to behold, celebrating the wonders of the natural world.

Experience a picturesque scene as a bed of pink azaleas bursts into bloom, enveloping the Stephen F. Austin State University Arboretum in a breathtaking display of colors. Amidst this floral paradise, a couple enjoys a leisurely exploration, surrounded by the enchanting beauty of nature. The aromatic air, the vibrant pink blooms, and the serene ambiance make for a romantic and memorable experience at this botanical gem.

Capture the tranquility of nature with this photo of the Stephen F. Austin State University Arboretum. Lined with long, lush green trees on both sides, the walking trail invites visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the arboretum. A solitary bench, nestled amidst the greenery, offers a peaceful spot for contemplation and appreciation of the natural surroundings.

Witness the captivating sight of vibrant yellow and pink azaleas in their full splendor at the Stephen F. Austin State University Arboretum. A springtime spectacle awaits as these stunning blooms create a colorful oasis, inviting visitors to revel in the beauty of nature's artistry.

In this captivating photograph from the Arboretum, the lush green trees are bathed in the warm embrace of sunlight. The interplay of light and shadows creates a mesmerizing sight, inviting visitors to experience the tranquil beauty of nature's golden glow.

In this captivating photograph from the Arboretum, majestic trees stand tall and proud, bathed in the soft, golden glow of sunlight filtering through the leaves. The scene exudes tranquility and natural beauty as the trees embrace the warm embrace of the sun, creating a serene ambiance that captivates the soul.