Two years of plentiful moisture and a gently-warming spring means that the wild flowers are exploding. Right now, in the foothills west of the Denver-Boulder area, wild American plums are producing a blizzard of fragrant white blossoms. In some places, it is like walking down a corridor lined with flowers.

Plums, like apples, cherries and raspberries, are in the rose family. Clues include five showy petals, and many stamens (the hair-like structures in the center) coming off a central ring. And like roses, these wild plums have a noticeable fragrance. In the fall, if the moisture continues, these plants will be loaded with plums.

But today, just enjoy the sights and scents.