SaguaroSaguaroThis spectacular, evergreen cactus is the quintessential Arizona plant. they grow very slowly to 60 feet or higher and are long-lived, up to 250 years. They may sprout branches when they reach about 20 feet tall, or at 60 to 75 years old.
Sometimes damaged by long, hard freezes around 20F.
Moderate when getting established, then none to occasional. Supply some water during extended hot dry weather. Plants receiving a little extra water will establish better and grow faster.
Full or reflected sun. Tolerates part shade.
Prefers rocky or loose soil with good drainage.
None.
Plants over eight feet high don't transplant well. Bacterial necrosis, a problem affecting older specimens or weakened plants, is fatal if not treated in the early stages.
BloomIn late spring or early summer, wreathes of white flowers appear at the top and branch tips, opening at night and lasting into the next afternoon. It is the state flower of Arizona.
Summer fruits are green then red. They split open, revealing the sweet red pulp and black seeds inside.
Accent plant. Native Americans made use of all parts of the plant, eating the fruit and making fences or ramadas out of the woody trunk.
Native of the Sonoran Desert. Member of the Cactaceae family.
Native, Desert Grassland, Desert, Desert Transitional.