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saguaro
Scientific Name: Carnegiea gigantea
Family: Cactaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Tree
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Saguaro Cactus (Carnegiea gigantea)
The saguaro cactus, scientifically known as Carnegiea gigantea, is an iconic symbol of the American West and a defining plant of the Sonoran Desert. This majestic cactus is renowned for its impressive size and distinctive shape.
Considerations for Pets
- The saguaro cactus is covered with two-inch spines located on the tree's vertical ribs.
Considerations for Children
- The saguaro cactus is covered with two-inch spines located on the tree's vertical ribs.
Common Names
- Saguaro Cactus
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Carnegiea gigantea
- Genus: Carnegiea (monotypic)
- Family: Cactaceae
Distribution and Habitat
- The saguaro cactus naturally grows in the Sonoran Desert.
- Notable locations include Saguaro National Park (east and west of Tucson, Arizona), Saguaro Lake, and areas around Phoenix, Mesa and Scottsdale, Arizona.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- The saguaro is an arborescent (tree-like) cactus.
- It is a large, tree-like columnar cactus.
- It is composed of a tall, thick, fluted, columnar stem, 18 to 24 inches in diameter.
- Often features several large branches (arms) curving upward.
- The largest cactus in the USA, commonly reaching a height of 12 meters (approximately 40 feet, though the text mentions over 70 feet) and an age of up to 200 years.
- The Saguaro Cactus has a smooth and waxy skin.
Quirky Facts
- The Saguaro Cactus may take decades to fully mature but is Steadfast, Long Lasting and not only Endures but Thrives in Challenging Environments.