La Bufa in December

The plants and flowers at the ecological preserve of La Bufa above San Sebastian del Oeste, Jalisco face a harsh existence. The high altitude and cooler temperatures allow pine and oak to flourish.

These photos were taken in late December, 2011.

Most impressive of the plants is the giant agave seen here in the company of oak trees but also scattered throughout the area.

It grows to well over two meters

and then shoots a flower stock another 3 to 4 meters into the air

as it`s one and only attempt at producing seed before dying.

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Orchids clung to the older oak trees but none were blooming in December.

Brilliant lichens coloured the rocks.

A number of wild flowers were in bloom although this time of year they are not plentiful.