Desert Toothpick

This time last year, I took a photo of two of my newly planted cacti. This was the first. Check out what it looked like then. I should have measured its height and arms when it was planted but it definitely appears to have grown considerably. Right now, I'd say it's about three feet tall.

Stesonia Coryne is known as the Argentine toothpick cactus, for its long, thick spines, which can actually be used as toothpicks. This branching species is the only member of its genus, and forms large stands that can measure up to thirty feet in height.

It should continue to grow "arms', much like a saguaro does. I hope it doesn't get too tall, though, because it may block my view of the mountains.

One year ago today I took my first photograph with my new Canon Rebel T3i. My first SLR camera. What a difference!