We are having an amazing spring/early summer here in Colorado Springs! It rained more than not in May, more than usual in June, and July we are seeing rain most every day, much of it overnight. So what does the rain bring? Grasses taller than expected, vivid greens across the landscape rather than golden grasses, and wildflowers rarely seen here and some I’ve never seen in my life. Join me on a walk to explore the beauty brought by the rain!
I have never seen Spider Milkweed. Since it is usually found much further south, what a surprise seeing it at all. Very unusual flower and so far no butterflies or bugs seem interested. That’s fine, we sure are interested.
My favorite is the Prickly Poppy (Argemone polyanthemos). It is common in the plains in and around the Rockies. What appear to be delicate petals are pretty hardy in the wind and sudden heavy rain. All parts of the poppy are poisonous to humans and animals, but those long, prickly thorns keep us at a good distance.
Everyone is commenting how few bees they are seeing this year. Is it all the rain or is it climate change and the use of pesticides that we have been warned about for years? Always a joy to see them pollinating for future “crops”.
A Cabbage White butterfly enjoying an Alphalfa (Medicago sativa) flower.
What a surprise and everyone is commenting how unusual to see the Maripos Lilies (Calochortus Gunnisonii), especially so many of them! They stand up to 18″ tall on a thin grass-like stem. Each stem produces one, perhaps two, 2″ flowers.
Apparently lavender-colored petals are unusual, but we are seeing many.
Every morning rain covers the landscape from overnight storms. Of course getting out about 6am we see last-night’s rain, but it disappears as the heat of the day increases by 8-9am.
Even a pink one!
Field Bindweed grows into large, tight mats that are tough to pull out of gardens and considered a nuisance weed. However, out in the open spaces the groupings are smaller and I’ve yet to see thick mats.
Checkered White butterflies seem to like them too.
Another favorite, the Prickly Pear Cactus. So many flowers this year! In the cactus family the Opuntias are Prickly Pear Cactus. There are over 90 species in the US. Most states have at least one native prickly pear. They come in unusual shapes and lovely flowers in a variety of colors. Since I don’t know what cactus is in what subspecies, I’m just sharing my favorites from this year. Enjoy the beauty!
Lots of rain last night! All natural. I never carry a watering can on my hikes. 😉 Honest!
Smooth Fleabane (Erigeron glabellus), first I’ve seen here.
Prairie Clover (Dalea purpurea) is a first too.
Walking along there are are also critters that don’t bother much with flowers, actually prefer areas near streams. My favorites are damselflies. Small, almost invisible among the grasses. Familiar Bluet (Enallagma civile).
American Rubyspot (Hetaerina americana). Here’s a tough one: Can you figure out why it has that name? 🤣
So much to see with so much moisture. Let’s hope it keeps the fires down this year. Oh, and of course the biggy with lots of rain. I sure do love my second-floor deck! Showing every color possible is always a wonder, and a double too.
Find the special treasures around you. It is always worth slowing down and looking round! Until next time my friend.
Loved the photos as they reminded me of spring in the desert around Sedona. The Mariposa Lilly was a favorite.
Thank you so much. This spring was strange. We are seeing desert flowers, but have had so much rain and cooler temps. Thanks again.
Loving the wildflowers and the green of rain.
Thank you Anne!
I can just picture you perched over the fantastic flora of the west. Gorgeous images of our beautiful natives. Thanks for helping more people understand the vital role of bees in pollinating every plant we rely on to survive.
Thanks friend!
Joy the pictures are great of all the gorgeous flowers and butterflies!
Thank you so much. It has been glorious this spring/early summer.