Bulbs are still slumbering beneath the snow outside, but inside the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory's Sunken Garden, the air is thick with the perfume of hyacinth and bearded iris and a brilliant array of other blooming flowers with this weekend's opening of the Spring Flower Show.

This year's show will highlight the hydrangea variety Arizona, which blooms either red or magenta depending on how it is grown, and runs through April 28.

Those attending the conservatory on Sunday can also partake in Books, Blooms and Beasts!, a free event featuring animal enrichment, gardener talks, story times and crafts. Xcel Energy staff will be on hand with energy bikes and bird-of-prey photo op cutouts.

The Minnesota-based Chastity Brown Trio will perform from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., and beer and wine will be available for purchase.

The conservatory, at 1225 Estabrook Dr. in Como Park, is open every day beginning at 10 a.m. Admission is free, but donations are suggested.

jim anderson

@StribJAnderson