Two mature Magnolia x soulangiana create a pink aura above the Wharton Hall courtyard. The cross is noted for being a heavy producer of cup-like flowers. Many magnolias are in full bloom, particularly those planted near the Worth Health Center. Interested in learning more about magnolias? Laura Stiebitz wrote an article titled A Spotlight on Four Stunning Species of Magnolias in the Spring 2012 edition of the Hybrid.  Photo credit: J. Coceano

Pendant male catkins on Corylus heterophylla var. thunbergii elongate in late winter. This particular plant, located near Mertz Hall, arrived as seed in 1993 from Chollipo Arboretum in South Korea. Photo credit: J. Coceano

Narcissus, planted in abundance along Magill Walk, brighten overcast days. The genus is divided into distinct divisions based upon flower form and genetic background. The trumpet division is one of the most well-known divisions and characteristic of genus. Photo credit: J. Coceano

Stachyurus is a genus deserving more consideration in the garden. S. praecox is an upright, arching shrub creating an overall rounded outline. Pendulous racemes, composed of numerous yellow inflorescences, appear in March-April. Plants thrive in full to partial sun. Photo credit: J. Coceano