Texas Frost Weed

This very unusual plant is also called the Ice Weed or White Crown-beard.  It blooms beautiful snow white blossoms in the late summer and early fall.  When the temperatures fall below freezing in the winter, and the ground is still warm, the root system continues to send sap up into the stalk of the plant.  The leaves have long sense fallen off, leaving just the erect stalk sticking up.  When the sap in the stalk crystalizes, it causes the stalk to split and thin ribbons of ice push out and form these very unusual ice sculptures.  These plants are commonly found in the Edwards Plateau region of central Texas.

Fall Journey

These two leaves were drifting down the very fast-moving waters of Baron Creek.  As I watched, the current brought them ashore just long enough for me to get this shot.  A few moments later, they were swept away downstream towards an unknown destination.

Leaves Beneath The Stream

Sometimes Fall leaves look good off the tree, too.  These leaves were nestled at the bottom of Barton Creek with a gentle stream of cool water flowing overhead.

Lost Creek

This is a secluded spot on Barton Creek, which meanders  through  a large ranch near Bee Cave.  I have  been fortunate enough to be able to hunt on 1000 acres of the property for the last 15 years.  I call the little falls “Lost Creek” since we didn’t even know it was there until a few years ago!

Blanco On The Rise

The Blanco River is normally very tranquil…until the spring rains hit.  This image was taken as the cypress-lined river neared flood stage between Wimberly and Blanco.