Another cactus that is plentiful in the southwest is the Ocotillo. This cactus grows long, pole-like branches that reach for the sky and are full of thorns hidden between the small green leaves that cover the branch. In the spring, they bloom at the tips with red flowers like those in this photo. The ocotillo is pollinated by hummingbirds and bees and I was lucky enough the capture a hummingbird at work on this one.
The small photo shows the whole plant with the long whip-like branches. The dried branches are sometimes used as natural fencing material.
This plant is located just down the street from my house in a neighbors beautiful yard.
Ah that's a magnificent shot with the hummingbird!
ReplyDeleteThat is an amazing capture with the hummingbird in flight! I love to see the blooming of the ocotillo cactus.
ReplyDeleteI miss the hummingbirds of Australia. think they were called Sunbirds. Nothing like that here.
ReplyDeleteWow you have to be quick to catch a hummingbird. Good job!
ReplyDeleteNice catch!!
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