Sunday, March 9, 2008

Barrel Cactus...

These large barrel cacti grow in many places in the Anza-Borrego desert, but usually on a slope (or on the flat just below a slope). I don't know what it is about the slopes that the cactus likes. There are many species of barrel cactus, and I can't tell them apart – but they're all members of the genus Ferocactus (wild cactus).

The blooms of this cactus have always fascinated me. The blossoms look like they're made out of colored wax, but they're soft to the touch. The colors are often pale, and always translucent. There is no scent other than the vague pollen scent.

Another thing that intrigues me about them is that for some reason they just strike me as unlikely looking. I'm not sure what I think a cactus flower ought to look like, but it isn't this .






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