Fragrant yucca blooming with amazing stars in Tonto National Forest, AZ

The 2023 bloom was a multi-year extravaganza! So many yuccas in bloom, their rich perfume filling the night with pure love. Bright white flowers contrast against a pitch black starry sky. Carla Meeske captured this sacred scene just in time, because today these yuccas are gone. Fire swept through the Tonto National Forest that spring, and the lush desert is now in slow recovery mode. We miss you, Yucca Elata. This image holds the memories of abundant life, evoking the rich perfume of the flowers, sparkling in the starry night.

Artist’s Story

Spring 2023 rains brought fields full of blooming yucca elata. The nights were intoxicating with the yucca’s sweet aroma, so thick, like a flower market in Amsterdam, but better. In 50 years I have never seen the desert so filled with these white candles. Fantastic! These beauties burned last Spring, which broke my heart, but today their roots are sprouting new little yuccas!

Print and Edition Information

Available in ChromaLuxe Semi Gloss Metal, Matte P99 Acrylic or Pearlescent Luster Paper. Digitally signed with Certificate of Authenticity

Edition

Open Edition