A Desert Park | Visiting | Activities | Nature | Culture | Education

The extent and timing of spring wildflower blooms in Joshua Tree National Park may vary from one year to the next. Fall and winter precipitation and spring temperatures are key environmental factors affecting the spring blooming period. Normally desert annuals germinate between September and December. Many need a good soaking rain to get started.	ACTIVITIES Backpacking Back Roads Biking Birding Camping Geology Tour Hiking Trails Horseback Riding Nature Trails Ranch Tours Ranger Programs Rock Climbing Stargazing Wildflowers » What's Blooming » Plants
In addition to rains at the right time, plants also require warm-enough temperatures before flower stalks will be produced. Green leaf rosettes may cover the ground in January; however, flower stalks wait until temperatures rise.
Wildflowers may begin blooming in the lower elevations of the Pinto Basin and along the park’s south boundary in February and at higher elevations in March and April. Desert regions above 5000 feet may have plants blooming as late as June.
Spring Blooming Periods
Lower Elevations: 1000 – 3000 feet Yuccas—March and April Annuals—February, March, and April Cacti—March, April, and May
Higher Elevations: 3000 – 5000 feet Joshua trees—March and April Annuals—March, April, and May Cacti—April, May, and June

Top of Page | Previous Page | Joshua Tree Home

http://www.nps.gov/jotr/activities/blooms/blooms.html last modified: 02/17/05 web editor: Sandra kaye