The Mighty Saguaro

Author: Linda J. Barkman

Issue: June, 2011, Page 88

Arms do not appear on a saguaro until it is 50 to 100 years old.

Nothing says Sonoran Desert, or makes a statement in the landscape, like the mighty saguaro cactus.With its unique sculptural form and seasonal blooms, this drought-tolerant native has become an increasingly
desirable design element in
residential gardens.

Saguaros store water in their cylindrical fluted stems. At maturity, a single saguaro can reach a height of 40 to 50 feet and store up to a ton of water. Their shallow root systems extend only about 4 inches below ground but will spread laterally as far as 100 feet to find water.

Birds ranging from Gila woodpeckers to owls and hawks call the saguaro home, carving out nesting holes with their beaks.

Multiple arms add bulk and structure; drooping arms are a sign of old age.

From late April and into June, the night-blooming saguaro produces large creamy-white blossoms—the state flower of Arizona.

Clusters of fine spines protect the saguaro from animals and provide it with shade.