Species Profile
Joshua Tree
Scientific Name
Yucca brevifolia
Yucca brevifolia
Native Region
Mojave Desert, USA
Mojave Desert, USA
Climate Suitability
Arid · Evergreen · Desert · Native
Arid · Evergreen · Desert · Native
Growth Rate
Very Slow
Very Slow
Mature Height
3–9m
3–9m
Typical Lifespan
150–300+ years
150–300+ years
Root System
Shallow, wide-spreading roots adapted to capture sparse desert rainfall
Shallow, wide-spreading roots adapted to capture sparse desert rainfall
Canopy Spread
3–5m, irregular branching crown
3–5m, irregular branching crown
Water Needs
Very low; adapted to extreme drought
Very low; adapted to extreme drought
Soil Preference
Well-drained, sandy or rocky desert soils
Well-drained, sandy or rocky desert soils
Sunlight Needs
Full sun
Full sun
On Social
Watch The Reel
This species' reel is live -- watch it on the platform of your choice.
Planting Guide
Growing The Joshua Tree
Extremely slow-growing and best left undisturbed in its native desert range -- young plants need full sun, sharp drainage, and almost no supplemental water once established. Avoid any overwatering, which is fatal.
Do
- Plant in full sun with very sharp drainage
- Leave established plants undisturbed -- they resent transplanting
- Be patient -- growth is measured in centimetres per decade
Don't
- Don't overwater at any stage -- this is the most common cause of death
- Don't plant in heavy or poorly drained soil
Why It Matters
Benefits Of The Joshua Tree
- Keystone species supporting unique Mojave Desert wildlife
- Extreme drought resilience makes it a model for arid-land restoration
- Long lifespan supports multi-century habitat continuity
- Distinctive, internationally recognised desert icon