What is a Desert Almond

Below is a transcription of the above sign found at the Valley of Fire Visitor Center.

Prunus fasciculata

Adaption for Survival

White bark reflects sun; small, waxy leaves, 1 inch (2.5 cm) long, clustered at intervals along its branches. Small flowers; both leaves and flowers drop in summer. Thorns discourage browsing animals.

Comments:

Favorite host for Great Basin tent caterpillar, whose webs are often found tangled in dessert almond branches.

Blooms:

March – May

Habitat:

Sandy gravels in washes and arroyos

Elevation:

2500 to 6000 ft (833 to 2000 m)

Type of Soil:

Well drained sands and gravels

Source of Water:

Surface, in drainages

Height:

3 to 8 ft (1 to 2.7 m)

Pollination:

Wind, insects