The Joshua tree, Yucca brevifolia,is native to the Mojave Desert in southern California. The trees also can be found in desert areas of Nevada, Utah and Arizona.
The tree was named by Mormon settlers crossing the Mojave in the mid-19th century who believed the trees looked like the biblical character Joshua, who lifted his arms skyward in prayer.
Joshua trees grow quickly for a desert plant, growing up to 3 inches/year during the first 10 years of life. They lack the rings typical of most trees, making it impossible to determine their age. If they can survive the heat and lack of moisture of the desert, they can live hundreds or even a thousand years.
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