A, C, and D.

   The California Fan Palm (Washingtonia filifera) was an important resource for the Cahuilla Indians. Not only were

   local palm-filled oases a sheltered reprieve from the desert elements, they also marked a permanent source of water

   (which the palms need to survive), which in turn attracted all levels of wildlife, ideal for hunting. Uses from this

   relic plant species included harvesting the nutritional dates for food  to utilizing the leaves, fruit stalks and trunk for a

   wide variety of utilitarian, ceremonial, and building materials. The palm even appears in Cahuilla moral teachings as an

   example of desirable qualities such as strength, reliability, protection, and being a good provider to your people.

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 Washingtonia filifera with fruit.                                                                      Photo:  M. Hedgecock