Desert Wildflowers Overview 2026
Jan 22 2026 New reports for Anza-Borrego, Joshua Tree, Mojave Preserve and Southern California see below
DesertUSA 2026 Wildflower Season Outlook
Outlook:
✔ Rainfall has improved dramatically across the deserts and Southern California inland valleys, exceeding early expectations.
✔ Early blooms are already appearing in the Anza-Borrego region and could be a precursor for broader displays.
✔ Death Valley and Joshua Tree now have better soil moisture to support annual wildflower germination.
✔ Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve and inland hillsides have a strong foundation for a lively poppy season pending continued warmth and moderate moisture.
Final Note
While predicting superblooms remains imprecise — depending on a delicate interplay of rain, temperature, and seed dormancy — the 2026 desert and poppy forecasts are markedly stronger than last year.
We’ll continue updates throughout the season with rainfall tracking, bloom field reports, and peak timing forecasts. Follow us for weekly updates as these spectacular natural displays unfold.
Where The Desert Wildflowers Blooming in 2025
- Phoenix Area and Northern AZ – Jan 19, 2026
- Tucson Area and Yuma AZ – Jan 12, 2026
- Anza Borrego DSP CA – Jan 15, 2026
- Carrizo Plain National Monument CA – Jan 4, 2026
- Death Valley NP CA – Jan 4, 2026
- Joshua Tree NP, Coachella Valley Region, Mecca CA – Jan 22, 2026
- Mojave NP – Amboy – RT 66 CA – Jan 12, 2026
- Southern California – Jan 22 2026
- Northern California and the Northwest – April 7, 2025
More States
- Nevada and Utah – April 29, 2025
- New Mexico and Texas – Jan 1, 2025
Share Your Wildflower Photos & Reports with DesertUSA
Please share your wildflower pictures, including the date and location. We will post your photos on our Wildflower Reports page, so others can learn where and when to view the spectacular displays. Note: Some photos may show invasive species like black mustard or wild radish, which are not native wildflowers. While colorful, they often crowd out native blooms and reflect poor ecological conditions.
- E-mail your digital photos and reports to Jim@desertusa.com. Use Wildflower Report as the subject of your e-mail. Let us know where you took the image, the date, and how you would like us to give you photo credit (first name, etc.)
- Text your photos to 760-740-1787. Be sure to include the location and the name you want to be credited for the photos.
MORE…
DesertUSA’s Wildflower Field Guide – Wildflowers by Color.
When will the Wildflowers Bloom in the desert
10 Favorite Desert Wildflowers
Wildflower Country – Four Drives into the Heart of Desert Wildflower Country.
Desert Garden Seed Starter Kit This Desert Garden Starter Set includes 10 different desert cactus, wildflowers, and plants.
Mojave Desert Wildflowers – This book is 210 printed pages with 200 color photos. More..
Desert Wildflowers and Plants Field Guide Kindle Edition