Flora: Mojave National Preserve
The Mojave National Preserve supports remarkable plant diversity due to its wide elevation range and the meeting of three desert regions: the Mojave, Great Basin, and Sonoran. Elevations rise from about 938 feet at Zzyzx to 7,929 feet at Clark Mountain, creating a variety of habitats. Lower elevations are dominated by creosote bush, cholla cactus, yucca, and extensive Joshua tree woodlands. Higher slopes and mountain ranges support pinyon pine and juniper, with occasional relict stands of white fir in cooler, sheltered areas.Joshua trees (Yucca brevifolia) are among the most recognizable plants in the preserve, typically growing between 3,000 and 7,000 feet. Creosote bush communities blanket much of the desert floor and may form colonies thousands of years old. Seasonal winter rains bring bursts of annual wildflowers and grasses. Springs and seeps support localized riparian vegetation that provides critical habitat for wildlife and migratory birds.
More than 800 plant species from over 80 plant families have been documented in the preserve, reflecting the ecological complexity of this desert landscape.
Sensitive Habitats
Chaparral Habitat, White Fir, Joshua Tree WoodlandsUnusual Plant Communities
Calcicolous Scrub, Sagebrush Scrub, Desert GrasslandAdditional Flora Information
Desert Habitats
Desert Plants
Pancake Prickly Pear
Piute Creek