Austin residents, known for their enthusiasm for all things unique and unusual, have found a new reason to celebrate—a remarkable succulent collection debut at the Zilker Botanical Garden. In true Austin style, the city’s plant aficionados are embracing this exclusive opportunity with open arms, showcasing their penchant for the extraordinary.
The Zilker Botanical Garden Succulent Collection is set to make its public premiere on November 4, and to mark this momentous occasion, an inaugural benefit dinner titled the “High Desert Dîner en Blanc” will be hosted. Inspired by the Parisian tradition of celebrating “good food and good friends” outdoors, this event promises to be a delightful blend of self-expression, playfulness, and community engagement. All proceeds from this event will contribute to the garden’s continued maintenance and accessibility, allowing more people to enjoy its meticulously tended plant treasures year-round.
The newly unveiled collection is a generous donation from the late Bob Barth, a respected scientist and co-founder of the Austin Cactus and Succulent Society. This social group not only provides educational programming but also dedicates volunteers to assist in the upkeep of the Botanical Garden’s Cactus Garden, with many of its members expected to attend the dinner. Bob Barth was also known as a dedicated professor of Zoology (Entomology and Ornithology) at the University of Texas and a longstanding member of the Travis Audubon Society.
Maintaining a sprawling 28-acre garden comes with considerable costs, even with the support of dedicated volunteers. Over the past year, the Zilker Botanical Garden Conservancy has successfully raised over $300,000. These funds are directed towards the preservation of the historic Butler Window, enhancing the succulent collection, and creating engaging visitor programs. The garden’s extensive network includes 26 member organizations, ranging from specialized groups like the First Austin African Violet Society to enthusiasts who appreciate the garden’s beauty, such as Plein Air Austin.
Bob Barth’s contribution also includes funding for a curator to oversee the succulent collection, ensuring its vitality and development until 2025 and, hopefully, beyond.
Guests attending the dinner are encouraged to adhere to the event’s theme by wearing white attire and are advised to refrain from wearing heels to protect the ground. Tickets are available at $125 per person or $225 per couple on the Zilker Botanical Garden website. Please note that attendees must be 21 years or older to participate in this exciting celebration of Austin’s succulent heritage.
