Spring flowers by the Biedouw River are part of Cederberg magic. They are equal to or part of the colour explosion that makes Namaqualand to the north famous this time of year.

The bleak thorn trees in picture, now everything but spectacular, remind of the other, many months that offer little heart-warming colour. The trees will also perform, just wait.

There is never a shortage of seeds from flowering annuals blown about here for the next spring pageant, weather permitting. When it does not permit, the celebration is postponed until the next good rain year... that is when the cold winds stay away. Floral success is a miracle here, but patience rewards and timing is of the essence.