Sunflowers and nautilus shells exhibit a geometric spiral that is found in many cacti and succulents. I thought you might enjoy some examples. Isn’t nature amazing?
This is Aloe polyphylla, the spiral aloe. Next, some cacti.
These are Sempervivum arachnoideum (cobweb houseleeks).
This is a Medusa euphorbia.
And another mammillaria. If the spiral form of its spines wasn’t lovely enough, it’s beautifully in bloom. Have you noticed Fibonacci spirals in your own plants or garden? Do look for them. You may be surprised at how common they are.
Award-winning garden photojournalist Debra Lee Baldwin authored Designing with Succulents, Succulent Container Gardens, and Succulents Simplified, all Timber Press bestsellers. Her goal is to enhance others' enjoyment and awareness of waterwise plants and gardens by showcasing the beauty and design potential of succulents via books, articles, newsletters, photos, videos, social media and more. Debra and husband Jeff live in the foothills north of San Diego. She grew up in Southern California on an avocado ranch, speaks conversational Spanish, and at age 18 graduated magna cum laude from USIU with a degree in English Literature. Her hobbies include thrifting, birding and watercolor painting. Debra's YouTube channel has had over 3,000,000 views.
Beautiful shots! Nature is amazing. i wonder what the advantage of a spiral is in a desert environment? There is enough sunlight so maybe it has something to do with water?
I just woke up and turned on my computer and I was pleasantly surprised by a large number of “Gardening Gone Wild” articles with many beautiful and colorful photographs. I only wish I could wake up every morning with your beautiful and inspiring work. Lets see now, what possibilities exist in my garden. Thanks Debra.
LenoreMay 2, 2014, 11:37 am
Great photos! I always enjoy your photography and commentary.