Instead of leaves, most cacti have spines or scales (which are modified leaves). These spines and scales do not lose water through evaporation (unlike regular leaves, which lose a lot of water). The spines protect the cactus from predators (animals that would like to eat the cactus to obtain food and/or water).
I like the lines in this cactus plant that is behind our RV at Amarillo Ranch RV. By the way, those thorns or thistles really hurt when they penetrate human skin. OUCH!
Thistle Cholla (Cylindropuntia tunicata)
Amarillo Ranch RV, Amarillo, Texas
Then there is this mystery plant with cool geometrical lines.
Mystery Plant
Amarillo Ranch RV, Amarillo, Texas
This Chinese Lantern caught my attention at the Amarillo Botanical Garden.
Chinese Lantern (Abutilon ‘Tiger Eye’)
Amarillo Botanical Garden, Amarillo, Texas
So I got a closer look.
Chinese Lantern (Abutilon ‘Tiger Eye’)
Amarillo Botanical Garden, Amarillo, Texas
Then I remembered to change my POV (point of view). I looked up.
Chinese Lantern (Abutilon ‘Tiger Eye’)
Amarillo Botanical Garden, Amarillo, Texas
I am glad I did. And finally, I leave you with this mystery duck.
Mystery Duck
Amarillo, Botanical Garden, Amarillo, Texas
Thanks for stopping by, y’all come back now.
I love the photos and the commentary. Thanks! 🙂
He looks like a ringed teal (Callonetta leucophrys) from South America. Handsome little guy!
Thanks, he was all alone in a small pond in a building that housed tropical plants.