SUNFLOWERS

In the fenced and ungrazed barn lot
where water rests before it rises
when it rains to find the culvert,

a thatch of summer flowers tall
all face the dawn—a photograph
to match with Calflora—

I’ve learned the names
of most wild and local flowers
that have survived our occupation.

Fifth generation in the same place,
I don’t care that these are non-native,
these immigrants established

year after year, flashing color
‘midst the bland and blond dry grasses
as they chase the sun down.