Walking up and down my street, there is not much life in any of the plants. Everything seems brown and lifeless. Everything, that is, except for a bunch of these weird, pointy plants, that are scattered around. Their colors range from a light yellow to a dark green, and the leaves are extremely firm. They reminded me a little bit of fireworks, how all of these leaves start in the middle but sprout out in every direction.
It took a bit of digging around online to come to my conclusion on what the plant is. I had previous knowledge of spider plants, which also have long leaves that sprout from a centralized point, but these plants were different. The leaves were just too straight, almost like spikes; there was not a sign of bending anywhere. I believe that the plant I photographed is an Adam’s Needle Yucca, an evergreen shrub that is able to thrive almost anywhere.
I have never been one to care much for plants. I have gone on this walk multiple times a week during this quarantine, but this was the first time I have even noticed these plants existed. However, I must say, it was really nice taking a break from everything and just appreciating how these colorful plants were able to stand out in a sea of brown. A large flower stalk is supposed to grow straight up from the center in late spring, so I am going to make sure to keep checking these plants when I walk by.

Chris Metzler
This is a pretty interesting looking plant that you found, Chris. I like how you liken their appearance to fireworks in the first paragraph. It provides a pretty clear mental image of what this plant looks like that is confirmed by the photo you uploaded. I’ve personally seen these plants around in various places, but I never paid much attention to them. I’ve never seen one with a flower on it, though, so I’ll be sure to keep my eye out for that. I hope you continue to enjoy your time outside and continue to notice new things on your walks.
-Nick Whaley
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Chris,
I really liked how you started off by talking about the dreariness that was present during your walk and then transitioning to a nice description of the plants that popped out from the dullness that was previously mentioned. Your comparison the the plants to fireworks was so nice and descriptive and definitely made it seem like the plant stood out to you. I’m glad that your walk outside was refreshing and provided you with a nice break and I’m glad that through this assignment you were able to find a new appreciation for the nature around you!
-Joanna Lee
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Chris,
To start off, I really liked your creativity when you compared the plant to fireworks as Joanna and Nick also pointed out. It made me look back at your picture again to visualize it because the first thing I thought of when I saw it was a sea urchin! I also agree with you in that this quarantine has made me notice and appreciate the things I usually pass by without thinking twice around my house. I look forward to seeing an updated picture of the flower stalk as spring continues on!
-Bel Yu
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