Good for observing, tough for plants

The conditions at the ESO Paranal site render it ideal for night-time observations, but tough for plants (and people). Exceptionally arid with incredibly little rainfall, and very isolated to avoid light pollution, flora and fauna have to be very well adapted to survive. This plant was snapped off road on the Paranal mountain. The la Residencia hotel, home for staff at ESO's Very Large Telescope, is visible in the background.