I was visiting friends in Palm Springs, California last week and had the opportunity to visit The Living Desert. The Living Desert was established in 1970 by several trustees of the Palm Springs Desert Museum who foresaw the impact that resort development would have on their local desert ecosystem.
The gardens feature diversity of forms adopted by plants that are found growing in harsh conditions typical of the world’s deserts.
California has been in a drought for many years, and it was enlightening to see so many beautiful plants that need very little water. From Brown-Spined Prickly Pear and Golden Yarro to the many varieties of sage standing beautifully in the hot sun, you can see how Mother Nature provides beauty in all climates.
There are over 1400 different species of plants that represent the arid regions of North America and Africa. The Texas Barrel Cactus above provided “ground cover” under taller cacti. In different stages of bloom the juxtapostion of the plants were gorgeous.
There were many plants in the abundant gardens that are used medicinally including the blue agave and aloe. Aloe Vera juice supports the immune system, is great for detox and digestion. When used topically, Aloe is good for burns, acne and hydrating dry skin.
Agave nectar is a thin syrup and natural sweetner that is similar to honey and is an ideal alternative to processed white sugar. It is also a good source of iron.
My favorite of all was the Saguaro cacti. I was so happy that we decided to go early and beat some of the heat.
