Ethnobotany 101: Understanding Plants, Culture, and the Mojave Desert New

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This introductory course explores the relationships between plants, people, culture, and ecology within the Mojave Desert. Participants will examine how Indigenous communities, settlers, and modern residents have interacted with native plants for food, medicine, tools, ceremony, survival, and environmental adaptation. Through discussion, visual materials, historical context, and local ecological examples, students will gain a foundational understanding of ethnobotany and the role plants play in shaping both landscapes and human communities. Topics include native Mojave species, traditional ecological knowledge, conservation, restoration, and the cultural significance of desert environments. This course welcomes beginners, lifelong learners, gardeners, artists, and anyone interested in desert ecology, cultural history, sustainability, or the interconnected relationship between humans and the natural world.

This course has discount registration fees for UNLV Staff and Alumni! Visit the discounts policy page for more information. Otherwise, email us at lifelonglearning@unlv.edu to see if you qualify for a discount.

There are still openings remaining at this time.