52 Hike Challenge 2016 Adventure Series
1.25 miles
The Crucifixion Thorn Natural Area is an interesting place
to view desert plants and wildflowers. Located southwest of the Yuha Desert on
Highway 98 in Imperial County, this fenced area has excellent stands of
crucifixion thorn, ironwood, palo verde, ocotillo, mesquite, and creosote.
Spring is usually the best time of year to visit the area. When nature provides
sufficient winter rains, an abundance of wildflowers and blooms from a variety
of desert plants can be seen.
Also known as corona de Cristo, the crucifixion thorn
(Castela emoryi) is the highlight of the area. Although fairly common in other
southwest desert basins (Arizona and Mexico), crucifixion thorn is rare in
California. This stand is one of a few in southwest Imperial County. The name
crucifixion thorn comes from the resemblance of the crown of thorns worn by
Jesus during his trial and crucifixion.
In spring, small pink flowers can be found on the thorny
branches of the crucifixion thorn. Fruits also grow, and are usually scarlet in
color. The fruits can stay on the plant for years and it is usually possible to
identify each season's fruit clusters by the degree of weathering. As the fruit
ages, it turns black and brown. The older fruit is often mistaken for parasitic
growth or the result of disease.
The flat terrain of the area offers easy hiking. There are
no facilities in the area, so visitors should bring their own water.
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