Did you notice anything unusual on the ground as to the artic front moved into LaSalle Parish Monday afternoon, January 15? In many locations throughout the parish, the ground was filled with unique “Frost Flowers.” According to the Mississippi State University Extension Service, Frost Flowers are rare ice formations that form when the ground temperature is warm enough for the plant’s root system to still be active and the air temperature is cold enough to freeze. Water traveling upward through the stem expands in the cold temperature, causing the stem to split vertically. When the water in the stems is exposed to freezing air, very thin layers of ice form and are extruded outward to make curls and ribbons. Mike and Charlotte Barnes of Jena submitted these photos of Frost Flowers on their property, which was soon covered by the dusting of snow. “They were so delicate,” Charlotte said. “They looked like the old fashion ribbon candy.” Other residents reporting seeing Frost Flowers as well.