Which plants grow in the desert?

There are numerous types of plants that grow in the desert, but the most common are cactus, sage brush, brittle brush, Joshua trees and short types of grasses. The types of plants that do well in the desert adapt to dry conditions, and often have a reduction of leaves and alternate water storage options.

Several of the plants that grow in the desert have adapted their photosynthesis to occur in stems instead of leaves, and for water to be stored in the stems as well. Many of the plants have used extremely long tap roots as a mode of adaptation, while others go the other way and stay close to the surface so they have a better chance to absorb the water before it evaporates.