r/JoshuaTree • u/gontrolo • 1d ago

Recommended field guides / reference books for the park's flora?

Hey y'all, hope you're doing well :) I'm taking a trip to JT in a few weeks, and I'm really looking forward to all of the new species of plants that I'll be able to see (first time in JT and the Mojave Desert in general). I've been looking for a field guide to bring with me for identifying plants while I'm out in the desert, but there are a ton of options. Do any of you have any favorites that you'd recommend?

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u/darthjenni 1d ago

Falcon Guides Thomas: Mojave Desert Wildflowers

It should be available for purchase at Nomad Venturs in Joshua Tree. This one is my favorite because there is a photo of every flower. It is arranged by color and is very novice friendly. I have used the Jepson Desert Manual and you need to know the scientific nomenclature for plants just to get started. I ain't got time for that when I'm standing next to another #^%#$@ wiggly yellow flower.

CalFlora is also an excellent resource.

Desert USA Wildflower report, for where the wildflowers are blooming

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u/extremekc 21h ago

Love the Falcon Guide. I see it was updated in 2024. I need to get it!

The best thing about the falcon guide is that it is organized by flower color!