Purple, white and yellow... oh... prickly too ;)

In the enchanting realm of flowers, every moment is an opportune time to immerse oneself in nature's splendor. However, let's narrow our focus today to the captivating hues of purple, white, and yellow blooms. Adding a touch of complexity, let's look at those adorned with a formidable array of thorns. And believe it or not, here in Colorado, such floral treasures are not rare ;)

 

Among my cherished floral companions is the White Prickly Poppy. These beauties, adorned in snow-white splendor, grace every corner of the landscape, their ethereal charm visible from afar and enchanting up close.

A word of caution, though: their delicate, tissue paper-like petals are guarded by a thorny fortress. So, admire but handle with care! Or, even better, keep your hands off ;)

They are also beloved by bees and flies, which makes them an ideal subject for close-up photography sessions.

Now, let's shift our gaze to the regal allure of purple blooms — a hue that exudes boldness and vibrancy.

The Thistle, a common yet untouchable bloom, stands proudly among my favorites, despite its seemingly prickly exterior.

Though less ornate than some counterparts, the thistle exudes a magnetic beauty that captivates the discerning eye.

The Cholla is another one I never can skip taking a picture of. Once it begins to bloom, this unassuming bush undergoes a remarkable transformation, its branches adorned with myriad flowers, turning the dull green landscape into a vibrant sea of purple.

A closer encounter reveals the prickly nature of this floral display, reminding us that some beauty is best appreciated from a respectful distance.

Every flower lives only a day or two, but there are dozens of others waiting for their turn and ready to step up and take place.

No matter how short its lifespan, Cholla flowers still attract a bustling community of bees and ants, drawn to the sweet nectar within.

Lastly, we turn our attention to the humble Prickly Pear — a champion of resilience and understated beauty. Though not as flamboyant as the Cholla nor as delicate as the Prickly Poppy, its golden-yellow blooms exude a quiet charm.

Acting as champions in the art of insect allure, these vibrant flowers play host to a constant buzz of bees and other curious insects. Their transient beauty encourages us to savor the moments when these yellow wonders bloom wildly, casting their spell on the surrounding landscape. 

Thanks to ChatGPT for helping me write this story.

Pictures were taken on June 22, 2020.