Maddog Murph
Desert Walkers
On my first trip to the Sonoran desert here, I decided I'd make at least an attempt to capture some of the different species of cacti to highlight their beauty. Before walking the Pacific Crest Trail about 9 years ago, I generally disliked the desert, but on that trail I got to walk through some of my first cactus gardens in spring, and it changed my opinion about the desert completely. Now I think the deserts are one of the most beautiful places in the world, and the ability for nature to transform and persevere inspires me to go back many times each year. What you see here is called the "Jumping Cholla" or the hanging chain cholla. The technical name is "Cylindropuntia fulgida" and is native to the Sonoran in the southwest US. The name comes from how easily the "Stems" detach when brushed.. often the merest touch will leave bits of cactus hanging from your shoes, clothes, or body. Despite their insanely painful spikes which are like fish hooks, the fruit is a critical part of the diet of some desert animals that rely on them for food and water. The natives most certainly also relied on this plant for the same, although the process of gathering, and eating them I'm sure is arduous at best.
Desert Walkers
On my first trip to the Sonoran desert here, I decided I'd make at least an attempt to capture some of the different species of cacti to highlight their beauty. Before walking the Pacific Crest Trail about 9 years ago, I generally disliked the desert, but on that trail I got to walk through some of my first cactus gardens in spring, and it changed my opinion about the desert completely. Now I think the deserts are one of the most beautiful places in the world, and the ability for nature to transform and persevere inspires me to go back many times each year. What you see here is called the "Jumping Cholla" or the hanging chain cholla. The technical name is "Cylindropuntia fulgida" and is native to the Sonoran in the southwest US. The name comes from how easily the "Stems" detach when brushed.. often the merest touch will leave bits of cactus hanging from your shoes, clothes, or body. Despite their insanely painful spikes which are like fish hooks, the fruit is a critical part of the diet of some desert animals that rely on them for food and water. The natives most certainly also relied on this plant for the same, although the process of gathering, and eating them I'm sure is arduous at best.