Prairie Crocus centre / Anemone patens

It's always so good when the wild Prairie Crocuses start to bloom after a long, cold winter. I love the centres of these flowers, with their bright yellow anthers. The petals act as reflectors, aiming the sun's rays towards the flower centre. Found this one growing at Sandy Beach four days ago. It was so windy, I could barely keep my footing on the steep hillside. Please don't dig up Prairie Crocuses to put in your garden - they don't transplant well, as they have a deep root system. Leave them where they are supposed to be - and that way, everyone else can enjoy them, too : )