Friday, July 23, 2010

(Day 204) Beautiful, but beware

I confess - I couldn't wait to make a few photos of today's subject. Once its flowers open, it's even more striking, which detracts from its less than benign features.

Of course I'm talking about the Canadian thistle. How it got its geographic designation isn't known, but it's a misnomer apparently since it didn't originate here. It is widespread throughout many countries.

A closer examination through these two photos quickly reveals why simply touching one of these is quite painful. Ah, but once they flower, they're tempting to cut and put in a vase, very carefully.

(60mm  f22  15 sec  ISO400)














(60mm  f22  55 sec  ISO400)

20 comments:

Scott Law said...

That is awesome. Love the detail and color. I can't wait to see the full bloom.

Costea Andrea Mihai said...

magnificent light!! regards

sebi_2569 said...

very nice photo; bravo

marty said...

I love thistles and your shots are just
gorgeous - Have a great week end Rick

chasity said...

amazing macro shots. like looking through a microscope.
fantastic.
have a wonderful weekend rick!

S. Etole said...

They are blooming here now, too.

In answer to your question about the milkweed ... no, I never have smelled one. Are they fragrant?

Rick said...

@Scott - thanks Scott. I'll post one once they bloom.

Rick said...

@Costea Andrea Mihai - thank you Costea.

Rick said...

@sebi_2569 - gracias !

Rick said...

@marty - thank you marty! I hope yours is going as well as mine :)

Rick said...

@chasity - thanks Chasity - I'd never seen them this close up either; fascinating little devils.

Weekend's going well - hope yours is too.

Rick said...

@S. Etole - I think our thistles should be blooming in 1-2 weeks.

Milkweed flowers are quite fragrant - a cross between a lilac and a hyacinth. Try one. (I have a large patch behind the garage).

Teté M. Jorge said...

WOW! Fantastic! I'll wait the next photo ... you'll show us the flower, won't you? =)

Kisses.

Rick said...

@teca - thank you; yes I will - as soon as it's ready!

Beijos - you see, you've taught me some Portuguese ;-)

Anonymous said...

Really cool!
I love, love, love shot 2!!

Can't wait to see the flowers.
['ô ] Avery

darlin said...

Rick you still are never ceasing to amaze me with your talent! Awesome photos and the lighting is unbelievable, wicked job!

Rick said...

@Photog Ave - thanks Avery! A sharp photo ;-)

Rick said...

@darlin - thank you Darlene; I'm learning lots through this project.

Julia said...

Those look very alien like. Could be something from a sci-fi movie....very cool!

Rick said...

@Julia - thanks Julia; yep - aliens, in our own back yard!