The Joshua tree was named by early Mormon settlers. I did not see what they saw in naming these trees, Joshua, but I could see it from this scripture: "This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:8. If any tree had reason to be "discouraged" it would be this rare desert plant that hangs on in the most inhospital areas and endures heat and wind and drought and cold and still thrives. Joshua's Tree!