Saguaro Cactus

The iconic sentinel of the American Southwest/Plants

The saguaro (Carnegiea gigantea) is the largest cactus in the United States and the defining symbol of the Sonoran Desert. They grow incredibly slowly, not producing their first arm until around age 75. A fully hydrated saguaro can hold over 3,000 kg of water, which is the desert equivalent of a camel crossed with a water tower. They can live over 200 years and provide homes for woodpeckers, owls, and various other creatures who appreciate rent-free housing.