Death Valley National Park

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"Secret Garden"

March 2005, Death Valley National Park, California

The historic Death Valley bloom in the spring of 2005 created this scene of explosive color. It’s hard to imagine that such a proliferation of life could be found in one of the most inhospitable places on earth. This particular field only peaked for about a two-week period, but what an unforgettable two weeks it was. The purple phacelias are to be respected, as a mere brush against your skin can result in a very nasty rash. Thankfully, I was warned ahead of time. The dominant yellow flower is desert gold.

California Death Valley Desert Gold Flowers Mojave Desert Phacelia Southwest Southwestern USA Spring Wildflowers 4x5 large format