Last week I wrote a post about my visit to the Children’s Garden at the US Botanic Garden. Here are a few photos from the rest of my visit. It was unbelievably hot that day and I had all of the outside gardens to myself. The conservatory was climate controlled, of course, and just beautiful. If I lived or worked in DC I’m sure that I would visit very, very often.
The garden is located just to the right of the capital building, at the end of the National Mall.
Inside the conservatory there are surprises everywhere.
I loved this Pink Powder Puff, Calliandra emarginata
and this beautiful view.
There are educational exhibits. 
And there are orchids. Here are a few photos for my friends who grow orchids…
I loved the beautiful pots of succulents and the great benches.
I need one of these butterfly benches!
The First Lady’s Water Garden looked very refreshing.
As you know, I love Echinacea… this variety is called Big Sky Sunrise.
The garden was a perfect respite from the DC heat.
I’ll be sure to return the next time I’m on Capital Hill!
The Salem Garden 