Joshua Trees

Joshua trees are strange-looking trees that grow in the deserts of the southwestern United States. They have thick, twisted branches covered with spiky leaves. Joshua trees can live for hundreds of years. They are found mainly in the Mojave Desert.

Desert Survivors

Joshua trees are well adapted to desert life. They can grow in dry, rocky soil with very little water. Their roots spread out wide to collect as much rainwater as possible. Joshua trees grow very slowly, only about 2 to 3 inches per year.

A Special Partnership

Joshua trees depend on one tiny moth for survival. The yucca moth is the only insect that pollinates Joshua tree flowers. The moth lays its eggs inside the flower. When the eggs hatch, the larvae eat some seeds while the rest grow into new trees.

Fun Facts

• Joshua trees can live for over 500 years.
• Joshua trees depend on one specific moth, the yucca moth, to pollinate their flowers.
• The tallest Joshua tree ever measured was about 80 feet tall.

Did You Know?

Joshua trees got their name from Mormon settlers in the 1800s. The settlers thought the tree's branches looked like the outstretched arms of Joshua from the Bible guiding them through the desert.