Joshua Trees
Joshua trees are strange-looking plants with crooked branches and pointy leaves. On the inside, too, Joshua trees are unusual. Joshua trees store large amounts of water so they can use it later. They get nutrients from the dry soil and lots of sunlight, air, and space from their desert home. Growing slowly for hundreds of years, a Joshua tree has many visitors. Birds nest in the branches, and lizards hunting for insects blend in with the bark. Kangaroo rats nibble Joshua tree seeds for food and water. People eat the seeds too. Long ago, Serrano and Cahuilla people used Joshua tree leaves to weave sandals.
Desert Fan Palms
A group of desert fan palms in the hot, dry desert can mean only one thing: Water is here. These trees need water all year and lots of sunlight. They may be close together, but they have all the space, nutrients, and air they need. Desert fan palms have giant leaves shaped like folding fans. Dead leaves hang down like shaggy beards, full of birds, snakes, and lizards seeking food and shelter. Bats rest in the leaves. Wherever these trees grow, their shade attracts many visitors—even people. Long ago, Serrano people used the leaves to build roofs, and they ate the sweet palm fruits. People still eat these fruits today!
Basketmaking
Deer grass and juncus have straight, bendable stems—perfect for weaving. Serrano and Cahuilla basketmakers gather handfuls of these stems, leaving some behind so the desert plants can keep growing. They soak the stems in water. Then the basketmaking begins! Experts weave with nimble fingers as beginners watch. Stitch by stitch, shapes appear in different colors. With woven pictures, basket makers tell stories. Long ago, Serrano and Cahuilla families used baskets in many ways. In some baskets, they gathered nuts and seeds. In others, they made acorn mush and cooked meals. Some baskets held water. Others cradled babies. Each basket is not just a container; it is a special work of art!
Level K Module 2: Life