Cactus Habitat: Mojave Desert

Jennifer Galas

Mojave Desert

Southern California

The smallest of the four US deserts, the Mojave provides a high-elevation habitat for cacti that is distinct from the nearby Sonoran Desert. Much less lush than the Sonoran Desert in Arizona, the Mojave experiences only one rainy period per year (during the winter). Cacti here are smaller and more dispersed as they compete for limited available moisture. The ability of cacti to grow new shallow roots quickly (within hours) in response to rainfall helps them absorb as much water as possible in this harsh environment.

Fortunately this is one of the best-protected ecological regions in the US, but threats still exist. Of particular concern in the Mojave Desert are invasive species, habitat loss from development, demand for landfill space in the region, livestock grazing and, ironically, large solar energy facilities.

Coryphantha vivipara var. alversonii

Although quite rare overall, this cactus is found readily in Joshua Tree National Park.

Opuntia polyacantha var. erinacea

This long-spined prickly pear cactus grows in the Mojave Desert among the Joshua trees. Populations are generally healthy and vigorous.

"Garden" of cholla cactus (<i>Cylindropuntia bigelovii</i>): This vigorous grower reproduces vegetatively, by loosely-attached segments that fall to the ground and root.

"Garden" of cholla cactus (Cylindropuntia bigelovii)

This vigorous grower reproduces vegetatively, by loosely-attached segments that fall to the ground and root.

Opuntia basilaris

This pink bloomer is a prickly pear cactus that grows mainly in the Mojave and Colorado Deserts. It is an endangered plant in California.

Metamorphic rock formations and Joshua trees (<i>Yucca brevifolia</i>) are common sights.

< Previous Next >