Cactus

Since I wasn’t photographing in the greenhouse at this time of year last year, I’m still finding new things that catch my eye. While many cactii have spines that stick “straight out,” these spines are lying relatively flat. Must find out more!

Common names: “Gold lace cactus”, “Ladyfinger cactus”, “Golden stars”. I hope I can see this species “flower”!

At PhytoImages:
» Species page: http://phytoimages.siu.edu/cgi-bin/dol/dol_terminal.pl?taxon_name=Mammillaria_elongata&rank=binomial
» Another of my images! http://phytoimages.siu.edu/imgs/paraman1/r/Cactaceae_Mammillaria_elongata_77612.html

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

One year ago (“‘Thank you! Thankyouverymuch!’”): http://365project.org/rhoing/365/2012-10-30
Two years ago (“Limits and boundaries…”): http://365project.org/rhoing/365/2011-10-30

[gina patel]

Nice dof and colours!

[Deanna Russell]

I love cacti! I think they are quite challenging to get an interesting shot and you achieved that!

[Tammie]

Like your focus on this. Neat shot.

[Thom Mitchell]

@drussell Challenge accepted, Deanna! I didn't start making a pest of myself in the greenhouse until the end of November last year, so I haven't been through an entire year's cycle yet, but it's also true that I haven't been completely enamored of the cacti the entire time, either. But lately, I've found myself drawn more to the cacti and succulents than the "pretty flowers" in another of the three or four "houses" that comprise the university's "greenhouse." Click my "siuc greenhouse" tag to see just how much of a pest I've made of myself over there in just 11 months! Hey, it got me through the winter last year! :)

[Rick Schies]

They may be flat, but I do think they still hurt

[Thom Mitchell]

@digitalrn I actually wondered that when I went back today, Rick, and you can run a finger along — carefully — and not get pricked!

[Vicki Dixon]

they sure are great patterns...full of contrast

[Jennifer]

Very nice photo, I like the muted tones and focus. Interesting that they are flat.

[Deanna Russell]

Haha Go Thom! Love the Hoya Carnosa shots. Brings back happy memories of the plant I had for about 23 years before she just up and died. They told me at the greenhouse that plants have a lifespan and hers was just over. I have bought two replacements and promptly killed them both.....I may try again! Lots of nice shots there!!!