Central ND News

As winter drags on, many find themselves yearning for the lush greenery of warmer climates. For those unable to escape to tropical destinations, the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory at Como Park in St. Paul, Minnesota, offers a reprieve. This Victorian-style conservatory, built in 1915, spans two acres and provides a sanctuary for plant enthusiasts throughout the year.

The conservatory's centerpiece is a 64-foot tall glass dome housing an impressive palm collection. Visitors can admire palms over a century old and imagine themselves transported to more tropical locales. The garden floor beneath is covered with vibrant foliage and healthy houseplants.

The North Garden presents an educational experience for families. Children can learn about how bananas grow and discover which part of the plant cinnamon comes from. The unusual cocoa tree is another highlight; its flowers bloom along the trunk, producing pods that contain prized cocoa beans.

For those interested in ancient plant life, the fern room offers a glimpse into prehistoric times when dinosaurs roamed the earth. The primitive tree ferns are likened to living fossils amidst high humidity that benefits dry winter skin.

Additionally, visitors can explore the largest bonsai collection in the region—a nod to Japanese art and science reflecting St. Paul's sister city relationship with Nagasaki, Japan.

Finally, guests are encouraged to visit the sunken garden last to enjoy rotating displays of shrubs, flowers, and bulbs. The winter flower show runs through March 16 with a spring exhibit beginning on March 21.