Walk into Paul Elias’ backyard, and you enter a botanical experience not seen in many home gardens.

Each turn through the lush foliage reveals a hidden charm — from the array of statues depicting Roman gods, cherubs and urns to the small, flower-accented pond in the center.

When Elias, 60, of Westmont, estimates he spends two hours in the garden per night and seven to eight on the weekends, it is not difficult to believe.

“Being active and creative keeps me young,” Elias said, a Vietnam veteran who now works as a designer for Straw Flower Shop in Geneva.

It is more than just a hobby; the garden dictates his life in some aspects.

“You can’t just pick up and leave for a three-day weekend with all of the plants to water and take care of,” Elias said.

Elias has been tending to his garden for about 32 years, which he describes as “an Old World European garden.” Each year, he adds new elements. Now he has a wide array of wildflowers, roses, Sweet William, Black-Eyed Susans, bee bomb, cone daisies, hydrangea, and Russian sage, among others.

As a child growing up in Downers Grove, Elias said he always looked forward to visiting his grandfather’s house because it had a sunken garden.

“It was always special to go look at it. Both my grandfather and father showed an interest (in gardening). I think that’s probably where mine came from — that and my artistic background,” he said.

Sometimes Elias holds luncheons on his back patio for lucky visitors, who often are wowed to learn that such a botanic gem exists in his backyard, Elias said.
“I like to show it off if I can,” he said.

Elias said anyone interested in taking a stroll through his handiwork can call him at his work at (630) 232-7141. But chances are if you are taking a walk in the evening down Linden Avenue across from Manning Elementary School, you probably will spot Elias at work or just enjoying the garden. Feel free to say hello.