It is high summer.  Paintbrush and cacti are giving way to light purple penstemon, along with numerous yellow and white composite or daisy-like flowers.  One flower that has always fascinated me is gaillardia.  These red and yellow flowers can be found along the roadways in New Mexico, in a seemingly endless variation of designs, and shades of the colors they carry.  The variations seem to shift from year to year, and yet some retain their distinction.  A true representation of evolution in progress.  These are typical of gaillardia in color and form.

Gaillardia variations on a theme-3

Gaillardia variations on a theme-2

Occasionally, the insides of the petals take on a deep burgundy color, as does the center.  It is the same flower but a stunning variation.

Gaillardia variations on a theme-4

If a flower is newly opened and has not been preyed upon by any number of insects, the colors are crisp, bright, and spectacular.

Gaillardia variations on a theme

The world around you awaits your perusal!

until next Monday,

DB

a passion for the image