The winter of 2024-25 did not offer much in the way of moisture across New Mexico.  There was a huge flood near Dexter in the south eastern part of the state in October.  And Santa Fe and parts north had a substantial snowfall in November.  But beyond that, there were dribs and drabs.  Until the third week in April and into mid-May, when the northern part of the state had more rain in a week than had fallen since the beginning of the year.  The only reason for referencing the numbers here is that the timing of the rain must have been perfect for a number of flowers, including cacti.  A little like the super blooms that happen in the deserts of Arizona and California, the moisture has to fall exactly at the right time.  Nature is an amazing thing.

I have yet to decide whether cactus blooms or the spines that aid cacti throughout the seasons are more interesting.  The first four images here are of barrel cactus.  I think both are probably a claret cup cactus variety. 

flowers and plants - barrel cactus 1 2025 flowers and plants - barrel cactus 2 2025 flowers and plants - Claret cup cactus 1 2025 flowers and plants - Claret cup cactus 2 2025

I am not certain, but this may be yet another barrel cactus variety with elongated body. But the spines provide their own design, in addition to the blooms.

flowers and plants - barrel cactus and spines
 

Below is a yellow prickly pear cactus, commonly found in many areas of the southwestern United States.  In all of these blooms, bees were in pollen heaven. 

flowers and plants - prickly pear cactus 2025

Another color of prickly pear cactus in a purple/fuchsia color.   They literally glow.

flowers and plants - prickly pear cactus fuchsia color 1 2025 flowers and plants - prickly pear cactus fuchsia color 2 2025 flowers and plants - prickly pear fuchsia color bouquet 2025    

Being June 2nd, it is beginning to feel like summer.  Given the fact that many of you will be out exploring with your cameras and paints in hand, I hope you are able to let those creative juices flow!  Thanks to Tim A., Jean & Sam, Marilyn G., Barbara F. R., M. Fred, Steve, TTT and Ingrid for writing last week.

until next Monday,

DB

a passion for the image©