Desert in Bloom

Spring is a wonderful time to be a researcher here at COC. Because the vast Chihuahuan Desert is so austere, any change of color is instantly noticeable. When the mesquite trees begin to leaf out, their slender bright green leaves are like a splash of paint on a brand new palette.

When the flowers on the claret cup hedgehog cactus suddenly appear against a dun green background, they're as striking as any red roses you've ever seen.



And when the desert marigold reveals its sunny face, the brilliant yellow is almost more than the eye can bear.