Plant of the Month

May 2011

Joshua Tree

Yucca brevifolia

This protected species of the Mojave Desert is a member of the Agave family. The Joshua tree should not be confused with the Mojave yucca, (Yucca schidigera). Although a close relative, the Joshua Tree can be distinguished by its shorter, thinner leaves. Both yuccas can be seen growing together throughout the deserts of the southwest.

Spoting the Joshua tree usually means you’re in the Mojave Desert, but they are also found in a few areas of the Sonoran Desert and foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains.

At maturity, trees can reach 30 feet in height with large, flowering clusters of a greenish-white color. Established trees do not require watering and can be a beautiful complement to any desert landscaped yard.