Single-leaf Pinyon Pine, Pinus monophylla

This resident of the high valleys and mountaintops was an important food source for the Cahuilla and other native Americans.

It remains vital to birds and ground animals.

This photograph was taken in early July when the tiny cones were starting to ripen and mature. In August the cones turn brown and birds and animals are able to extract their pine nuts. Meanwhile, we humans go to our markets to buy pignolas. Same thing.

This is the desert's only pine tree. It is found in pinyon-juniper woodlands.