Actually I did this hike yesterday morning but didn't get around to posting it till today (afternoon dentist appointment). Anyway there is a definite fading of the green at this southern OSP. The more hardy ground cover wildflowers are still there in spots but they are slowly relinquishing the spotlight to the scrub brush type plants. Also the grasses here are spectacular right now. Grasses you say? I know it surprised me too but the seed pods of the grasses are in full swing and make for a lovely view. Surprisingly, I counted about 4 or 5 distinctly different grass seed heads. I have to admit when its all green I've always just kind of lumped it all into the "grass" category.
I also saw a couple of beautiful Lilies (one in the photos above) that I've never seen before. This is a great hike in a great area, lots of wildlife and scenic views and now is a great time to get out and see it. I haven't posted any hikes from this spot yet and won't be able to for the next couple weeks but here's a link to the home page for this County Open Space Preserve that should get you there: http://www.openspaceauthority.org/trails/rancho.html
I am heading south for a week of camping at Leo Carrillo State Beach and then on to the San Diego area for a Mother's Day family visit. If I have cell reception at the campground I may post some updates from there. In the meantime... get out there and hike!