Tenison Park Pollinator Garden

The 1.9-acre Tenison Park Pollinator Garden in East Dallas is a collaborative effort between the Dallas Park Department and the Hollywood/Santa Monica Neighborhood Association. Located near the intersection of East Grand and Tenison Memorial Drive, this non-irrigated public park has been transformed into a haven for pollinators with Texas native and adapted plants. Lovingly tended by Karen Albracht and volunteers, the garden features more than 100 native flora species, including Lindheimer Muhly, Pavonia (Rock Rose), Melampodium leucanthum (Blackfoot Daisy), Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly Weed), Asclepias viridis (Green Milkweed), Chasmanthium latifolium (Inland Sea Oats), Verbesina virginica (Frostweed), and Anisacanthus quadrifidus var. wrightii (Flame Acanthus), plus many others. These plants attract birds, bees, and monarchs, offering essential habitat and nourishment for various pollinating species. The garden serves as a colorful array of native plants and flowers that bloom throughout the year, and visitors can learn more through educational signage promoting awareness of pollinators’ vital role in our ecosystem. Whether exploring the garden as a nature enthusiast, a gardening hobbyist, or someone seeking a peaceful retreat, Tenison Park Pollinator Garden offers a unique and enriching experience in the heart of the Hollywood / Santa Monica neighborhood.

We welcome volunteers of all ages and abilities to participate in our pollinator garden activities. To be notified of upcoming volunteer sessions, please email Karen Albracht (karen.albracht@att.net). Come learn with us!”

Tenison Park Pollinator Garden Landscape Plan

Tenison Park Pollinator Garden is a Monarch Waystation

Monarch Waystations provide resources necessary for monarchs to produce successive generations and sustain their migration. Without milkweeds throughout North America’s spring and summer breeding areas, monarchs would not be able to produce the successive generations that culminate in the migration each fall. Similarly, without nectar from flowers, these fall migratory monarch butterflies would be unable to make their long journey to overwintering grounds in Mexico. The need for host plants for larvae and energy sources for adults applies to all monarch and butterfly populations worldwide.