Joshua tree

American  

noun

1. an evergreen tree, Yucca brevifolia, growing in arid or desert regions of the southwestern U.S., having long, twisted branches.

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Joshua tree British  

noun

1. a treelike desert yucca plant, Yucca brevifolia, of the southwestern US, with sword-shaped leaves and greenish-white flowers

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Etymology

Origin of Joshua tree

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

A study says Joshua trees could all but disappear from their namesake national park by the end of the century, unless drastic climate action is taken.

From Los Angeles Times

It was her first day back, and she had just walked through a sea of scorched Joshua trees rising from blackened earth, their dagger-like leaves bleached an unhealthy yellow.

From Los Angeles Times

Joshua trees consistently disappointed people who tried to exploit them.

From Los Angeles Times

In the white heat of salesmanship, an L.A. real estate agent is said to have stuck oranges on Joshua trees and sold plots as groves.

From Los Angeles Times

In fact, given the abundance and density of Joshua trees on her property, she isn’t sure whether she can legally dig anywhere in her yard without the state’s permission.

From Los Angeles Times