Phyto-‘fingerprint’

I had lots of cool shots from the cactus house and I learned about “epiphytes” from Karen in the fern house, but I was fascinated last summer and fall how these leaves unrolled for the first time. I tried photographing them when they were outside in the garden, but I didn’t get close enough to see all the vein patterns, which in this image (I think) look like the ridges and swirls of human fingerprints, particularly on the top-right part of this rolled-up leaf.

This closes out the month of February and the “flash-o-red” theme/challenge. I wasn’t aware of it on the 1st and I [obviously] misunderstood with my post on the 3rd. But since then, the posts have been B&W except for Valentine’s Day on the 14th. So here’s my flash-o-red: http://365project.org/tags/tmflash-o-red

Taken at the SIUC Plant Biology Greenhouse, http://www.plantbiology.siu.edu/facilities/plant-biology-facilities/greenhouse/index.php

One year ago (“Spheres and disks…”): http://365project.org/rhoing/365/2012-02-28
Two years ago (“Newton’s cradle, ‘Objects in mirror are closer…’”): http://365project.org/rhoing/365/2011-02-28

[elaine]

I've viewed your b&w month, Thom. Very nice.

[Rick Schies]

It looks almost like fabric

[Tara]

Your calendar looks awesome Thom! For some reason, you don't show up on my feed much anymore. We must be on here at different times. I'm so glad that you commented on my shot because it reminded me to come look at yours. This is wonderful. I may not comment on all your Feb shots, but I will look at them.

[Thom Mitchell]

@tara11 @xtech @digitalrn Aww, thanks you three! I have been so swamped at work, I can barely stay on top of the frames I shoot and post one. The semester will wind down — eventually — and I will be able to spend more time being the faithful followers you guys have been for me!