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Spring is in the air and the wildflowers are blooming in Southern California. The eastern part of the region is experiencing a “super bloom” unlike anything seen in the area since 2005.
With once-in-a-decade type growth around the state, a steady stream of day trippers has been heading for the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and other bloom-rich areas, snapping terrific photos of the fields of flowers sprouting up in the area.
The explosion of flowers was brought on by a wet winter, which brought seven inches of rainfall to the park, as National Geographic reports. Cool weather also helped, keeping moisture in the ground for longer than usual.
The super bloom “hit its peak” about a week-and-a-half ago, according to the Borrego Desert Nature Center. Still, officials say the flowers will show up in a "rolling bloom" that happens in waves across the park, and many areas, including Plum Canyon and the Cactus Loop Trail, are still worth investigating for those seeking the park’s colorful displays.
The nature center also recommends Glorieta Canyon and Yaqui Pass, currently sporting vibrant displays of yellow brittlebrush flowers. Meanwhile, late bloomers like ocotillo plants are just now coming into their own, as the Mercury News reports.
Here are a few pictures of the awe-inspiring blooms popping up in the park.
Of course, Anza-Borrego isn’t the only place to see blooms right now. Poppies, and other wildflowers, are sprouting up to dramatic effect around Diamond Valley Lake.
Lake Elsinore is also seeing plenty of California’s state flower.
Closer to home, lupins are blooming in Palos Verdes.
Blooms are sprouting farther north, in Malibu, as well.
Impressive wildflower growth can also be spotted at Joshua Tree and Death Valley National Parks, as well as the Antelope Valley Poppy Preserve.
Recent reports from the Joshua Tree area indicate that lilies are sprouting up around the Desert Lily Sanctuary near the eastern edge of the park along Highway 177.
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