A Tale of Two Joshua Trees

Published Date

May 31, 2011

Most Joshua trees feature a variety of contorted branches, but under unique conditions the trees can grow ramrod straight. Kurt Repanshek photos.

All trees are not created equal. While that statement can be proved in any forest, in Joshua Tree National Park the park's namesake trees really define that statement.

Joshua trees themselves are contortionists, their branches bending and curving this way and that. So when you come upon one that is ramrod straight, well, it stands out.

During my trip to the park earlier this year I was able to find time to cruise the Park Boulevard, both from Joshua Tree to Twentynine Palms one day and from Twentynine Palms to Josha Tree the next.

And while the park's boulder fields were certainly impressive and inviting for bouldering, the Joshua trees in the photos accompanying these story immediately grabbed my attention. Why, I wondered, was the one tree so straight? Was it some sort of antennae in disguise? Fortunately, the park staff figured this question would come up frequently, and so explained what was going on in the park newspaper:

Like all desert blooms, Joshua trees depend on just the perfect conditions: well-timed rains, and for the Joshua tree, a crisp winter freeze. Researchers believe that below freezing temperatures may damage the growing end of a branch and stimulate flowering, followed by branching. You may notice some Joshua trees grow like straight stalks; these trees have never bloomed -- which is why they are branchless!

If that indeed is the case, then the tree in the bottom photo has endured more than a few freezes!

Story Categories:

Visiting the Parks

Support National Parks Traveler

Your support for the National Parks Traveler comes at a time when news organizations are finding it hard, if not impossible, to stay in business. Traveler's work is vital. For nearly two decades we've provided essential coverage of national parks and protected areas. With the Trump administration’s determination to downsize the federal government, and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum’s approach to public lands focused on energy exploration, it’s clear the Traveler will have much to cover in the months and years ahead. We know of no other news organization that provides such broad coverage of national parks and protected areas on a daily basis. Your support is greatly appreciated.

EIN: 26-2378789

Support Essential Coverage of Essential Places

A copy of National Parks Traveler's financial statements may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: National Parks Traveler, P.O. Box 980452, Park City, Utah 84098. National Parks Traveler was formed in the state of Utah for the purpose of informing and educating about national parks and protected areas.

Residents of the following states may obtain a copy of our financial and additional information as stated below:

Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR NATIONAL PARKS TRAVELER, (REGISTRATION NO. CH 51659), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 800-435-7352 OR VISITING THEIR WEBSITE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
Georgia: A full and fair description of the programs and financial statement summary of National Parks Traveler is available upon request at the office and phone number indicated above.
Maryland: Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (410-974-5534).
North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 888-830-4989 or 919-807-2214. The license is not an endorsement by the State.
Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of National Parks Traveler may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
Virginia: Financial statements are available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.
Washington: National Parks Traveler is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law and additional information is available by calling 800-332-4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities, or on file at Charities Division, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504.

Add new comment

Comments

Submitted by justinh on May 31, 2011 - 10:58am.

Nice article. It's hard to wander through Joshua trees and not wonder about their personalities.

Submitted by admin on May 31, 2011 - 6:10pm.

Joshua Tree is one of our favorite places to camp, picnic, and play. Our three kids can spend days just scrambling around on rocks. For anyone with a high-clearance 4wd and a sense of adventure, I recommend driving from Dillon Road in Indio up through Berdoo Canyon to the park. We went just yesterday and Berdoo Canyon and adjoining Geology Tour Road were exploding with wildflowers!

Submitted by admin on June 3, 2011 - 2:42pm.

Somehow that explination does not make sense to me?? If the two trees were in different locations i could see it. How do you explain the two trees within 30ft of each other -- one freezing but the other not??

Add comment

form.antibot { display: none !important; } You must have JavaScript enabled to use this form.

INN Member

The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.

Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks.

You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks