The iconic columnar cactus of the American Southwest, saguaros can grow over 40 feet tall and live 200 years.

Also called: Sahuaro

Native status: Native; endemic to Sonoran Desert

§ Quick facts

SizeHeight 12–18 m (40–60 ft); diameter ~0.5 m
WeightUp to 3,200 kg (7,000 lb) when fully hydrated
Lifespan150–200 years
OrderCaryophyllales
FamilyCactaceae

§ Encyclopedia

The saguaro is a tree-like cactus species in the monotypic genus Carnegiea that can grow to be over 12 meters tall. It is native to the Sonoran Desert in Arizona, the Mexican state of Sonora, and the Whipple Mountains and Imperial County areas of California. Saguaro typically grow at elevations ranging from sea level to 4,500', although they may be found at up to 5,000'. The saguaro blossom is the state wildflower of Arizona. Its scientific name is given in honor of Andrew Carnegie. In 1933, Saguaro National Park, near Tucson, Arizona, was designated to help protect this species and its habitat.

Source: Wikipedia — Saguaro Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Massive columnar cactus with fluted trunks and upward-curving arms.

Similar species. Other columnar cacti. None as large in northern Sonoran Desert.

Voice. N/A

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. N/A — photosynthesis via CAM metabolism

Behavior. Slow-growing — first arm appears at 75–100 years. Pleated stem expands like accordion to store water.

§ Range

Sonoran Desert of southern Arizona and northern Mexico

§ Habitat

Desert flats and rocky slopes with infrequent but heavy summer rains

§ Threats

Climate change shifting rainfall patterns, invasive grasses fueling fires (a saguaro can't survive fire), illegal poaching.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the saguaro cactus is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Support Sonoran Desert protected areas. Never carve, climb, or transplant saguaros. Reduce wildfire risk.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • National Park Service Saguaro National Park
  • iNaturalist
  • IUCN Red List 2017