Dragon Sighting

[kdoc856]

Well, maybe not. But it reminded me of one. It's a tree in Florida (recent visit) that has the most deadly protection I've ever seen. No idea what it is, but I suspect our Floridian members might. These blooms are lovely and seem incongrous to the vicious thorns beneath. Roselike , I guess.

[JPS]

Kevin,
I have know idea what it is; but I like it. The composition is different from the norm andis intesting and pleasing to the eye.
Well done
Cheers
John

[Sergio M.]

Very cool looking, Kevin. Without the limbs at the top it could even be some alien landscape. Good catch.

[kdoc856]

Thanks, Sergio and John.

Still hoping some 'southerners' or botanists can ID this for me.

[Walj]

Very interesting. Thanks for sharing..

[Dave Humphries]

This is intriguing Kevin.

What is the diameter of the foreground object?

[cornishboy2004]

Possibly a Silk Floss Tree

Native to the subtropical forests of South America, the Silk Floss Tree is now widespread around south Florida, and appreciated for its beautiful flowers.

[kdoc856]

Hi, Dave,

There is a single trunk about 25-30cm in diameter, which then splits into two large branches, one of which was almost horizontal. I shot this along the axis of the horizontal branch just beyond its takeoff from the main trunk. These spikes continue on each branch right out to the terminal twigs from which these flowers arise. I've never seen anything quite like it.

[kdoc856]

Hi, Matthew.

I think you are exactly right. I composed it more for interest's sake than for a realistic rendering, but your photograph is exactly as it appeared, though I suspect the blooms on my tree were past their prime. Thanks much for your ID- I was CERTAIN somebody on CiC would know. I'm predicting that the "tree-huggers" will not be taking up this tree's cause.