Is it true palm trees are not indegenous to Southern California but were imported from North Africa and planted in CA many years ago?

Brainy Blonde

No, it is not true. Its indigenous flora and fauna, which the Cahuilla peoples so expertly used, and its abundant Washingtonia filifera (palm trees), are breathtaking contrasts to the stark, rocky gorges and barren desert lands beyond. See: http://www.palmsprings.com/points/canyon/ There are 2,500 species of palms worldwide, with 11 native to North America. The largest of these, and the only palm tree native to western North America, is the California Fan Palm. See: http://www.desertusa.com/magnov97/nov_pap/du_nov_fanpalm.html Yeah, I know. I'm in California. They grow palm trees here. But the thing is, Sacramento is in northern California. Palm trees are indigenous to southern California. The palm trees you see here are all specifically planted for decorative purposes. And while I have no problem with this practice, in and of itself, I do take issue when the trees planted don't even grow naturally in the area! You'll never go for a drive in northern California and see a grove of palm trees growing in the wild, for example. See: http://www.bee.net/cardigan/soapbox/soap0901.htm Mar 23 02, 11:03 AM