The mystery seed pods from last week look a bit like butterflies, so one of the common names for the plant is yellow butterfly vine.

It is also called yellow orchid vine because its bright yellow flowers resemble orchids.

The scientific name is Callaeum macropterum (previously Mascagnia macroptera).

The plant itself is a vine. Can you see the seed pods towards the top? This one had flowers and seed pods at the same time.

Originally from Baja California and Mexico, the yellow orchid vine grows in well in desert gardens. Ours was killed back by frosts last year, but is recovering nicely.

The lovely flowers also attract butterflies and bees.

More information and photographs

Have you ever seen a yellow orchid vine?