Joshua Tree

(Yucca brevifolia)

Joshua Tree (Yucca brevifolia)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Yucca brevifolia, commonly known as Joshua Tree, is an evergreen plant that can be categorized as a shrub, tree, or succulent, native to the Mojave Desert in the Southwestern USA. Joshua Trees grow relatively quickly for a desert species; new seedlings may grow at an average rate of 7.6 cm (3.0 in) per year in their first 10 years, then about 3.8 cm (1.5 in) per year thereafter. The trunk is made up of thousands of small fibers, which makes it difficult to determine the tree’s age as it lacks annual growth rings. It has a distinctive appearance with a top-heavy branch system and what has been described as a "deep and extensive" root system, with roots that can reach down to 11 m (36 ft). Capable of living for hundreds of years, some Joshua Trees have been known to survive for over a thousand years. The tallest trees can reach about 15 m (49 ft). New plants can grow from seed, and in some populations, new stems can also grow from underground rhizomes that spread from the parent tree. It produces showy white and cream flowers in the spring.

The Joshua Tree is valued for its unique sculptural appearance and is often used in xeriscaping and desert landscaping. It requires minimal maintenance and is drought-tolerant, making it suitable for gardens with low water availability. It thrives in full sun and requires soils with fast drainage. While it is not typically used for its flowers, the Joshua Tree’s striking form makes it a focal point in any landscape. Gardeners should be aware that it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered and may suffer from frost damage in colder climates.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub, Tree, Succulent
  • Height: 5-20 feet
  • Width: 10-15 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White, Cream
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, Very Low
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to the Mojave Desert in the Southwestern USA

Other Names

Common Names: Yucca Palm, Tree Yucca, Palm Tree Yucca

Scientific Names: , Yucca brevifolia, Yucca brevifolia var. brevifolia, Yucca jaegeriana, Yucca brevifolia var. jaegeriana, Yucca brevifolia subsp. jaegeriana, Yucca brevifolia subsp. herbertii, Yucca brevifolia var. herbertii, Yucca brevifolia f. herbertii, Yucca arborescens

GBIF Accepted Name: Yucca brevifolia Engelm.