Cactus in Bloom

The cactus in my yard are starting to get their spring growth. They are beautiful yet will stick you if you get too close. I love how a close-up view looks so alien.

What a difference two weeks makes. Above is the photo from my post on March 16th and then the tip of the ocotillo this morning.
Notice how the branches are now starting to get the little leaves all the way down the stem.

This cactus has really grown in two years. They get these nice purple buds that become the actual cactus pads. This plant only stands about 2 feet high at present.

I love the way the buds look close-up.

Thank you nature. I am enjoying your show.

First Sign of Spring

One of the first signs of spring for us in Arizona. The tips of the Ocotillo plant start to sprout. (Pronounced - Oh - Koh - Ti- Yo for all of my friends from the mid-west) This means soon the rest of the plant will green up with little leaves between the spikes and a beautiful red flame-ish flower will bloom at the tips. Ocotillo means candle-flame. My Mac's Field Guide calls the Ocotillo the "Coach Whip" It flowers from March - April so the timing of my buds are right on time! Go Ocotillo!