(no subject)

[guppiecat]

While I was in Phoenix, there was a rain storm. As soon as I could get away, I headed to the Desert Botanical Garden, as I had heard that the desert smelled amazing after the rain. As it turns out, this is true. Also, the lighting was perfect, so I took some pictures. I liked almost all of them, so there are more photos than usual below the cut.




Cactus - I find it interesting how many cacti seem to lose their older spines.


Cactus - I can't be sure, but I think it's getting ready to bud.


Cactus - Cacti have an ability to be seemingly dead and alive at the same time. I really like the juxtaposition.


Cacti - I just thought that these ones looked like people. Maybe they're cactus fairies?


Cactus - This is one of those that gets surrounded by a halo when the sun is just right.


Cactus - Right after a rain storm. I'll bet even native Arizonans don't see this too often.


Cactus - Close view after rain. (This is the shot I was talking when grrscary text messaged me.)


Stone and Sky


Cactus


Cactus


Cactus


I have no idea what this is.


Cactus - More cactus after the rain. I'm slowly getting better at capturing glimmer.


Sunset


Sunset

Comments

[beki.livejournal.com]

You are right. There is a distinctive smell just before and just after a rainstorm in the desert. I rather miss it. IIRC, the reason for that is the plants KNOW when its going to rain. Dependant on the species they pollinate just before or just after so that their seeds have a better chance of catching and taking root.

Avoid sagebrush though. It smells like overactive concentrated kitty whiz when it rains.