Arkansans should be familiar with the wintry phenomena of frost flowers. However, this year we’ve seen the rare occurrence twice! This gorgeous “bloom” doesn’t last long so let’s quickly learn a little more and see these delicate field flowers.

Many Arkansans stepped outside to an unusual sight this past weekend.
Facebook/Arkansas Nature Lovers/Ed Minton
It seems our fall lasted about a week and the chilly season has already set in because the frost flowers have started appearing. This "bloom" typically happens at the tail end of our winter during late January to early February. For 2019 we've gotten to see this dainty flowers twice!
Predicting when these "blooms" will happen is rather difficult since these aren't typical flowers.
Facebook/Arkansas Nature Lovers/Buddy N Shauna Burgess‎
Frost flowers occur when we have a sudden cold snap while the ground is still warm. The stems of small plants will snap once the sap freezes and expands. The escaped water will freeze into different shapes from wide wings to swirly ribbons.

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If you gaze out to a field and see crumbled up pieces of paper you may need to take a closer look.
Facebook/Arkansas Nature Lovers/Cynthia Hubbard‎
From afar the frost flowers look like plastic bags or discarded paper but an up close look will reveal a much more delicate treat. Just tread lightly! These little sculptures can crush easily or melt in the sun.
Frost flowers can occur anywhere if the conditions are right.
Facebook/Arkansas Nature Lovers/Jennifer Parker
You may spot on in the backyard or while taking a hike. Morning is the best time to see these little flowers, before the sun is in full force.
There's no telling how many more times we'll see the frost flowers this year so be sure to take pictures when you do notice one!
Flickr/Tanya Impeartrice
Our winter is predicted to be wet and mild so we may not see these flowers again until next year. Whenever they do appear they're quite the treat!

Have you seen a frost flower recently? We’d love to see your photos! Some of these captures came from the members of our Facebook group, Arkansas Nature Lovers. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why there’s nothing better than Arkansas’ stunning nature.

As it continues to get colder make plans to take one of these winter hikes or this gorgeous horseback ride.

 

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