This is our big plant. I took this shot because it really shows you how the blooming goes from bottom to top of the limb. They bloom with the bright yellow/orange color like you see on the top two. Then they turn a dark orange like the one on the left. Next, as they start to wither, they turn a dark red like the two on the bottom right. They are absolutely fascinating. But then, I am easily entertained.

Since this is my neighbor's plant growing through the privacy fence, it could be called a weed. But, since I like it, and it grows every year in this spot for me, I do not consider it a weed. Remember, a weed is any plant growing where you don't want it.

These have intrigued me my whole life long. They live 17 years underground before emerging on a hot summer night, climbing up the closest surface, and completing their metamorphosis by shedding this shell. The shell stays in place, but after unrolling their wings and giving them time to dry, the cicada (sometimes called a locust- even though it isn't one) flies off to a tree.

Here is a link to a very short YouTube video of the emerging process: Click Here

This tiny little wasp is a Cerceris kennicottii. They love to sit on the basil leaves. Not sure what they are getting from them.

This guy loves resting in the shade down inside this pot. I think it is cooler there because I water the plant every evening.