Pipe Spring National Monument - Plants

Pipe Spring National Monument by National Parks Service

Situated at the edge of a pinyon-juniper woodland, sagebrush flats stretch out before Pipe Spring National Monument. One might be amazed at how anything grows in this semi-desert place. Water, both permanent and temporary, supports all plant life. Plants have developed adaptations to survive the dry times. Prickly pear cactus and datil yuccas rely on stored moisture. The roots of other plants reach deep within the soil to find their moisture. Few wildflowers germinate in dry times. Dead or dry looking plants are often dormant, patiently waiting for needed moisture. In times of plentiful precipitation, this region is alive. Prince's plume, penstemon, paintbrush and other wildflowers decorate the plains and hillsides. Other plants add shades and depths of green to the vibrant landscape. Struggling to survive the dry years, animals feast in wet years.

The Paiute viewed plants as life, existing to provide food, clothing, medicine, shelter, dyes, tools and baskets. Ceremonies or prayers were done before selectively collecting only the needed parts of the yucca, cliff rose, rabbit brush, willow and other plants. Many continue the tradition of these ceremonies and the respect it extends.

As the Mormon pioneers moved in, the plants they needed for life were introduced into the environment. Culturally introduced plant materials include a variety of shade trees, fruit trees, a grape arbor and a vegetable garden. More destructive, however, were the non-native or exotics, which turned into invasive weeds, choking out native plants. Further destruction occurred through grazing and woodcutting. Trees disappeared to supply fences, tools, buildings, and fuel. Grazing eliminated native grasses and many other plants which wildlife foraged. Over time, changes in vegetation have altered the landscape of this region forever.