May 9, Plants in the Desert: Living Survival Aids

by Filip Tkaczyk

There are many plants in the desert that can serve as vitalaids in wilderness survival.  Some serveas a source of food, some as material for shelters and others serve as theperfect material for friction fires. Knowing your plants can also help lead you to water, the desert’s mostprecious and elusive resource.

Desert Edibles

Some of the best plants in the desert for food are thosethat provide some kind of edible fruit or seed. Many desert plants protect themselves with spines, sharp leaves and/ortoxins.  Therefore, you need to learn toproperly identify any plants you intend to eat. It is best approach them withrespect and consume them in moderation.

In the United States, there are four major deserts that spanmuch of the southwestern portion of the country.  These are: the Great Basin, the Mojave, theChihuahuan, and the Sonoran deserts.  Eachdesert has its own distinct plant communities, and therefore, edible plants youmay find in one may be absent in the other.

Here are some of the most common and best species to knowand their common uses.  It is wise to getfamiliar with these species, and how to prepare them before you are put into asurvival situation.

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