While my super-sniffer snout prepares for the abundance of fresh blossoms this spring in Balboa Park, I actually find wintertime to be the best season to visit the blooming succulents in the Desert Garden.

More than just a Southwestern-style collection of garden-variety cacti, the Desert Garden spans 2.5 acres between Park Boulevard and Zoo Place to present a vast assortment of arid-climate plants from around the world. From the familiar aloes and agaves to the truly otherworldly looking Candelabra and Dragon Trees, the Desert Garden comprises approximately 1,300 plants arranged in picturesque formations overlooking Florida Canyon.

A handy colorful map you can print out before your visit will help you locate such oddities as the Quiver Tree, Boojum Tree, Pencil Tree, and the (gasp) Naked Coral Tree.

You are even encouraged to stray from the main paved walkway to fully explore this thoughtfully designed landscape. But be careful—especially bipeds wearing sandals and shorts—as you are liable to graze a prickly barrel cactus if you aren’t watching your step. (I’ve personally had more than one sticker plucked from my hide.)

Whether you are passing through on one of three marked trails that crisscross Balboa Park or enjoying a leisurely visit, keep an eye out for the blooming aloes this month and many additional blooms in March. This is also a great time to take your pack on a guided Off-Shoot Tour on the fourth Saturday of the month, which highlights the Park’s desert vegetation.