a portfolio by GARY FIGGINS When Carl and Mettie Penzel purchased
52 acres of land not far from the little Southeast
Missouri community of Oak Ridge in 1963, it was their
plan to create a personal weekend retreat to provide a
respite from the regular toils of daily life. Forty-five
years later Pinecreast Azalea Gardens provides one of the
most spectacular displays of springtime color in the
state, and it can all be enjoyed by the public at no
charge.
More than 300,000 jonquils and daffodils provide the
first splashes of color in March, followed by every
imaginable color of azalea and rhododendron. Prime
viewing is usually late-April to mid-May.
Pinecrest Azalea Gardens is open to visitors from March
through May. While a maintained driving path allows
viewing of the magnificent color from the comfort of a
vehicle, the full appreciation of this natural wonder can
only be gained by walking the dozens of paths that wind
through the different varieties of plants. The gardens
are available for parties and special gatherings.
For more information or to inquire about special
gatherings, call 573-266-3537.
