Flower power: Chicago’s Lincoln Park & Garfield Park conservatories burst with spring color

Two Chicago conservatories are currently boasting major spring flower shows. Lincoln Park Conservatory unveils “Jewels of Spring,” and Garfield Park Conservatory presents Showers of Flowers.” Both spectacles of color run through Sunday, May 10, open Wednesdays to Sundays.

Free admission draws crowds to these floral displays. Chicago residents get priority access, according to the Chicago Park District, but online registration is required for entry.

“Jewels of Spring” shines at Lincoln Park

At 2391 N. Stockton Drive, Lincoln Park Conservatory spotlights the Tower of Jewels, or Echium, Pride of Madeira. According to the website, this plant grows two- to three-foot flower spikes in dramatic colors. Tulip variations like “Gold Rush” and “Flaming Flag” join in.

African daisies in “4D Violet Ice,” Cymbidium orchids, Delphinium “Cobalt Dreams” and Primula “Wild Flame Shades” add vibrancy to the show, the website boasts. Camellias, azaleas, peonies and hydrangeas provide a colorful backdrop. Event hours run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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“Showers of Flowers” dazzles at Garfield Park

Garfield Park Conservatory at 300 N. Central Park Ave. features over 80 hanging baskets, according to the website. These showcase trailing ivy, sweet potato vines, bushy asparagus ferns, pansies, petunias and calibrachoa. Ground plantings include daffodils, tulips, lupines, cymbidium orchids, astilbe, snapdragons and ranunculus.

Azaleas, camellias and hydrangeas form the backdrop here as well. Hours for this event run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, and until 8 p.m. Wednesdays, the website states. Vertical designs inspire home gardeners.

These shows celebrate spring renewal amid urban green spaces. Visitors can soak in cascading blooms and jewel-like spikes. Both sites emphasize seasonal favorites.