Natural History Wanderings

Winter rains this year have not been enough to prompt a showy display of annual wildflowers, but a careful observer willing to spend some time looking can find something in bloom somewhere. Cacti, shrubs, and ocotillo are persisting in small numbers. The Palo Verde trees are still blooming at the Visitor Center and around town, but the bright yellow blossoms won’t last much longer. The Visitor Center’s Desert Willow is in full bloom, with gorgeous lavender blossoms. Ironwoods and indigo bushes are beginning to sport tiny purple flowers. Hikers may still find occasional blooming plants in western canyons, and should try sections of the Pacific Crest Trail, particularly at higher elevations, for more flowers.