86

JOSHUA-TREE (Yucca brevifolia)
Other names: yucca, yucca cactus, palmetto

GOOD

The Joshua-tree is found in southern California and Arizona. A few stray into Nevada and Utah but are stunted and more of a cactus in those areas. Nothing else looks like a Joshua-tree, unless it is palms or palmetto. This tree grows to 2 or 3 ft. in diameter and may live up to 300 years. The trunk is usually covered with the shaggy, dead leaves. The wood is soft and fibrous. This tree is hardy, slow growing and is seldom wind thrown by even the most severe desert storms. 

There is no report of recovery or characteristics of original bearing trees of this species. The Joshua-tree was used by the original surveyors in the California desert, have been recovered, and were sometimes called palmetto. 

Where the Joshua-tree grows it is usually the only tree available. Blazing and marking is difficult. Use a very sharp axe. Trim away the dead leaves. Blaze carefully with the axe blade nearly parallel to the trunk to avoid "gouging" and going too deep. Use a very sharp scribe and large letters to avoid tearing. Though difficult to do a neat job, it can be done. Paint the blaze to prevent decay and weathering.