Yucca brevifolia
Joshua Tree
Description
Slowly to 30', but can reach 60' in nature. Develops a distinctive trunk to almost 3' wide. Terminal clusters of stiff short gray green leaves. Older leaves persist on trunk pointing down. Thick, fleshy greenish white flowers to 1". Late winter into spring. Native to Arizona, California and Nevada @ 2-5000' on dry mesas and gravely slopes. Full sun. Drought resistant. Good drainage. Can be a massive treelike plant. Slow. Extremely drought tolerant.
Plant Type
Tree
Height Range
12-25', 25-40'
Flower Color
Green, White
Flower Season
Spring
Leaf Color
Green, Blue Green, Grey Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
n/a
Sun
Full, Half
Water
Very Low, Low
Growth Rate
Slow
Soil Type
Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular
Soil Condition
Average, Poor, Well-drained
Soil pH
Neutral, Basic
Adverse Factors
Thorns/Spines
Design Styles
Ranch, Spanish, Wild Garden
Accenting Features
Silhouette, Specimen, Unusual Shape
Seasonal Interest
Spring
Location Uses
Background, Foundation
Special Uses
Naturalizing
Attracts Wildlife
n/a
Water Saving Tip:
Apply a 2" layer of mulch around plants to reduce moisture loss.
Choose organic mulches, such as shredded bark, compost, or aged sawdust.
Inorganic mulches such as gravel are also acceptable.