| This ocotillo is growing is part of a small patch growing near
the south entrance to Joshua Tree National Park. The Cottonwood Mountains
are in the distance. Ocotillo (Fourquieria splendens) is one of the
indicator plants of the Colorado Desert in California. This member of the
"Violet Family" grows only in the lower elevations of the park.
The plant can produce small ovate leaves twice a year, and small red, tubular
flowers. They grow to about 15 feet and their stems can carry out photosynthesis.
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