Species PlantsJoshua Tree

Joshua Tree

Yucca brevifolia

UncommonPlant
Illustration of Joshua Tree (Yucca brevifolia)

The Joshua Tree is an iconic symbol of the Mojave Desert, known for its twisted, spiky branches and unique silhouette. It can live for hundreds of years.

Habitat
Found in desert regions, particularly in the Mojave Desert.
Diet
Pollinated by the yucca moth, which has a mutualistic relationship with the plant.
How common
Uncommon

Best time to see a Joshua Tree

The best time to see a Joshua Tree is January–June, when about 65% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 28,565 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Not certain it is a Joshua Tree? What plant is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.

Recent Joshua Tree sightings near you

Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.

Spot a Joshua Tree? Identify it instantly.

Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal for an instant ID, its rarity, and a live map of where it is being seen near you.

Get Huck

Get an alert when a Joshua Tree is spotted

Pick a park, state, or city and we’ll email you when one turns up there. One check a day, only when there’s something new.

Free. Unsubscribe from any email. See our Privacy Policy.

Love plants? Get Huck field notes

Spotting tips, new species, and the best of what people are finding in the wild - straight to your inbox.

By subscribing you agree to receive Huck emails. No spam, unsubscribe anytime. See our Privacy Policy.

More plants

Kalm's Lobelia
Kalm's Lobelia
Lobelia kalmii
Kalm's St. John's-wort
Kalm's St. John's-wort
Hypericum kalmianum
Kentucky Bluegrass
Kentucky Bluegrass
Poa pratensis
Kentucky Coffeetree
Kentucky Coffeetree
Gymnocladus dioicus
Knobcone Pine
Knobcone Pine
Pinus attenuata
Knotted Rush
Knotted Rush
Juncus nodosus
Kudzu
Kudzu
Pueraria montana
Labrador Tea
Labrador Tea
Rhododendron groenlandicum