Sagittarius Viking
Mindful exploring, through the eyes of a viking daughter.
Amazing Nature – Desert – Joshua Trees
Joshua Tree, outside Las Vegas (NV.)
Joshua trees are fascinating to look at, standing tall in the middle of the desert landscape. It looks like they are reaching up towards the sky. In fact they were named by mormon settlers, that crossed the Mojave Desert in the mid-19th century. The trees unique shape reminded them of a story in the Bible, where Joshua reaches his hands up to the sky in a prayer.
Joshua trees in a desert landscape, along State Route 160, in southern Nevada.
These hardy little trees that grows in southern Nevada, southern California, and Arizona are actually very sensitive to our current climate changes. Scientists believe that their numbers could be reduced by 90% by the end of this century. Which would have a huge impact on the ecosystem, probably more than we can understand today.
Joshua trees aren’t actually trees, they are succulents, a type of plant that stores water. In their dry ecosystems, however, they are considered trees of the desert. They have a complex root system that consists of deep and shallow root. Their deep roots can reach a depth of 10-30 feet (!) and collect water that no other plant can use. Pretty cool, don’t you think?
Joshua trees have been used for wood, and building materials for centuries. I think just looking at them is a treat. The way they reach up towards the sky is such a positive, hope giving gesture. Like they are giving thanks. I think they are among the most interesting, fascinating plants in the desert. What do you think? Have you ever seen a Joshua tree? How do they make you feel?
It was cloudy yesterday when I took these pictures, and the light was kind of flat. It was a lot of fun experimenting with my new camera anyways, and enjoying nature at the same time. I hope you’re having a wonderful weekend!
Love,
Ms Zen
I enjoy seeing Joshua trees. I love the bloom!
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I have actually not seen them bloom, looking forward to experience that 🙂
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Some time I will share our pictures.
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I’d love to see them!
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I am busy with book reviews so it may be awhile. It should give a break search for the pictures.
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I’ll be watching for it 🙂 Have a great day!
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I love them, call them my desert people!
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That’s a great name! Very creative.
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They must be a very resilient tree to survive in that environment.
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Yes! This is the exact environment they want.
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I’ve never seen a Joshua tree in person, but they certainly are iconic to the dry Southwest. A far different environment to NorCal. How are you adjusting?
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They are special. Well, I’ve lived in Nevada before, even though it was further north, I love the desert. Right here in las Vegas it’s a little too hot, and too many people for my taste, but the desert is wonderful. I don’t have to go very far to enjoy mountains, which is amazing. My daughter asked me today why we don’t go on adventures anymore..lol. and said that she wanted to hike to a waterfall. I’m going to have to do some research.
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Waterfalls in the desert must be as rare as hen’s teeth! 😀
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LOL. I actually looked it up a few minutes ago, there’s a few with a couple hours drive.
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I never new Joshua trees got their name from Thee Joshua! They do look like hands praying to the sky! I love how you can take these succulents in the desert and use their life-giving water for the theme of Sunday Stills, you clever girl! Plus I learned something!
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I had to think a little for that one 😉 I do think they are amazing, being able to save water, and use water that no-one else is using. That is pretty incredible.
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I never knew that’s how Joshua trees got their name! So interesting, I hope we don’t lose all these beautiful trees! ❤️ The desert is a fascinating place and has its own beauty. I love your photos! 😀 🌵
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I sure hope we don’t loose them, they are iconic. I’m looking forward to cooler weather and more hiking, exploring in the desert. Thank you for your kind words.
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I have spent much time among Joshua trees, especially in Dolan Springs, near the Arizona portion of Lake Mead. They never fail to enchant.
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That is a very nice area to spend time in. I really like the nature there. Thank you for having coffee with me.
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the only Joshua tree I know is a 1993 movie by that name starring Dolph Lundgren
The trees are beautiful
~B
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And that is a pretty good one, if I remember right 🙂 Thank you!
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I love Joshua trees! 💕 I am enjoying reading about your new and exciting adventures. 😊
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They are amazing! Happy to share with you my friend ❤
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Wow, that’s an amazing looking tree!❤
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I thought so too. Thank YOU 🙏
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Wonderful post! I’ve seen photos of Joshua trees but I never knew much about them. Very informative post!
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Thank you Aixa 🙏
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