When rain falls on the mesa, magic happens.  Even the sagebrush comes alive, showing a brightness and depth of color that normally is hidden under the surface.  This year, because of unusually abundant spring rains, the wild phlox, goatsbeard, mat daisies, bladderpods, claret cup and prickly pear cacti, and blue flax have had a season of abundance. But the winner of the banner year is the paintbrush (genus Castilleja).  Across the breadth of the landscape are mounds of bright red glowing like campfires spontaneously erupting from the earth.  I have read that paintbrush have very specific soil and plant companion requirements to thrive.  You can frequently find them in rock shadows, creating a miniature garden, or under the gnarly but loving arms of sagebrush.

Paintbrush

Paintbrush-4

This grouping seems to be quite content amidst the native grasses.

Paintbrush-3

detail of the "flames" 

Paintbrush-2

until next Monday,

DB

a passion for the image@