Brewer's Red Maids (Calandrinia breweri, Portulacaceae)
I believe this pretty flower is Brewer's Red Maids (Calandrinia breweri) in the Portulacaceae plant family, growing in place in the mountains that was cleared but not burned a few years ago. It usually grows as a fire follower, but sometimes clearing the chaparral is enough to trigger these plants. What beautiful colors it has, though you have to get down on your hands and knees to appreciate them. Apparently all plants that were formerly considered Calandrinia ciliata are now included in Calandrinia menziesii, but C. breweri remains unchanged. This one does seem different, more prostrate and spreading. (San Marcos Pass, 2 April 2016)
Brewer's Red Maids (Calandrinia breweri, Portulacaceae)
I believe this pretty flower is Brewer's Red Maids (Calandrinia breweri) in the Portulacaceae plant family, growing in place in the mountains that was cleared but not burned a few years ago. It usually grows as a fire follower, but sometimes clearing the chaparral is enough to trigger these plants. What beautiful colors it has, though you have to get down on your hands and knees to appreciate them. Apparently all plants that were formerly considered Calandrinia ciliata are now included in Calandrinia menziesii, but C. breweri remains unchanged. This one does seem different, more prostrate and spreading. (San Marcos Pass, 2 April 2016)