Montane. Woodlands. Summer.
Cimarron Trail, Uncompahgre Wilderness, August 22, 2004.

Rowan Trees are uncommon in the mountains of the Four Corners area but are commonly planted as home ornamentals and along city streets.  In montane woods, they are often small, multi-trunked trees that go unnoticed until their bright berries attract attention.  Once one learns the tree's appearance and forest habitat, it suddenly becomes more common.  Isn't this so often the case?  The plants are always there, but we don't see them until we train our brain to see.

Montane. Woodlands. Summer.
Upper Stoner Mesa Trail, June 7, 2006.

Montane. Woodlands. Summer.
Cimarron Trail, Uncompahgre Wilderness, August 22, 2004.

Montane. Woodlands. Summer.
Cimarron Trail, Uncompahgre Wilderness, August 22, 2004.

Bark, especially on dead limbs, has a lustrous sheen and is often beautifully pitted.

Montane. Woodlands. Summer.
Hillside Road, San Juan National Forest, September 14, 2005.