Plant of Mystery... and Serious Skin Irritation

Behold the mystery vine! Every summer I find it and eradicate it. It pops up in places one would never expect.

Wherever there is moisture, these vines seem to spring into spontaneous existence. Because they blend so nicely with other plants, I never see them... until it is too late. The slightest touch seems to cause a swelling, bubbling, itching, burning rash which lasts for weeks. While this plant may not be the only culprit in my dermatologic distress, I can tell you that touching these things without protection is pure stupidity.

When the plant initially bursts forth from the earth, it is a "cute" little guy-- in fact, it looks a LOT like this other mystery plant which has wee purple blossoms. After the initial "cute" green-leafy phase, it then branches out and twirls its nasty way around anything it can touch. If anyone knows what this is, feel free to comment. Similarly, if anyone knows why the heck I persist in pulling weeds WITHOUT wearing gloves year after year, please do not bother to comment... in the meantime, I'll keep slathering myself with Benadryl ointment...

Other Cacti

The strange meandering silhouette of the large cactus is quite formidable. I think this is a cholla cactus. When it dries, it looks very cool, and many artists use the dried shapes in their work. The low profile prickly pear is New Mexico's version of "the weed." Trying to avoid these things while dog-walking is near impossible! They are tough to dig up and even though they look really cool, especially when they flower, I would prefer that they were not so abundant.

Unknown Flowering Plant

This is a strange plant which I have always liked. When it flowers, early in summer and/or late spring, it produces little purple flowers. It then shoots out a runner of sorts which has some little bean pod type thingies. No idea what the name of this plant is, but the bean pod things are rather nifty! If anyone knows what this is, please feel free to comment.

Indian Paintbrush Plant

This, I think, is a wildflower known as an Indian Paintbrush. This is the first one I have seen on the property and every time I go near it, very concerned hummingbirds go on the offensive!