Zeltnera Venusta (Charming Centaury)
A striking yet delicate wildflower, Zeltnera venusta adds vibrant color to Southern California’s spring landscapes with its vivid pink, star-shaped blooms and bright yellow centers. This annual native typically grows in open meadows, grassy slopes, and disturbed areas, thriving in full sun and blooming from late spring into early summer. Its slender stems and eye-catching flowers bring a cheerful presence to the natural scenery. This Zeltnera venusta was observed in Mission Trails Regional Park, San Diego—a beautiful example of California’s native wildflower diversity.
Camera: NikonD7500
Lens: Helios 44-2 58mm f2
Lens effect: Soft-focus bokeh created in-camera with vintage glass.