Saguaro Cactus – Carnegiea Gigantea

Where do Saguaro Cacti Grow?

The Sonoran Desert marks the only region where Carnegiea gigantea (saguaro cacti) grows naturally from southern Arizona through southeastern California and into Mexico’s Sonora and Baja California. The cacti flourish in regions under 1200 meters where desert heat combines with 25-30cm annual rainfall. They flourish in sandy or rocky soil surfaces and die back during cold temperatures below mild winter conditions. You can easily spot these plants in Tucson and Phoenix areas because they grow well in areas filled with saguaro cactuses. The Sonoran Desert’s special weather together with its soil types and moisture levels supports the flourishing of these recognized desert species.

How does Carnegiea Gigantea Survive?

The saguaro cactus known by its scientific name Carnegiea gigantea survives well in the harsh Sonoran Desert thanks to its unique survival methods. It keeps 200 gallons of water in its stretchable pleated skin during extended moisture shortages. The cactus has a thin uniformly spread root structure that picks up rainwater from every water drop that falls. A strong waxy surface protects water and narrow spines block sunlight to keep away predators. A small speed in development saves energy which the tall structure uses to gather more sunlight for photosynthesis. The cactus sends up its flowers during night hours to draw nocturnal pollinators, especially bats and moths. With these natural adjustments the saguaro thrives in extremely difficult environmental conditions.

How long do Saguaros Live and Grow?

Saguaros the Carnegiea gigantea lives long lives while growing slowly. Under perfect conditions these plants live more than 150 years and can reach 200 years of age. The plants reach minimal growth at 2.5 cm (1 inch) per year until they reach maturity. During the first 70 years of life a saguaro needs that time to produce its first arm which helps with water storage. As mature saguaros age to 100 they develop heights between 7 and 10 meters or 24 to 32 feet. The completed saguaro cactus reaching 150 years of age can grow to its full size of 40 feet as a monument to desert beauty.

When do Saguaros Bloom and Reproduce?

Saguaros (Carnegiea gigantea) show their flowers and develop seeds during their springtime blooming season from late May through June. As nighttime blooms reach their peak these plants display big white funnel-shaped flowers with short open times before morning. The cactus sends out its flowers near the tips of its branches and trunk areas in order to draw bats, bees and birds to pollinate them. Animals that visit flowers for nectar take pollen between plants while doing so. Once pollination succeeds the flowering saguaro gives red edible summer fruits packed with tiny seeds. Cactuses rely on animal consumers to scatter their seeds whenever the animals eat the cactus fruit. The plant’s annual flowering and fruiting habits serve to support the desert environment.

How Tall and Fast do Saguaros Grow?

Saguaros as the tallest among the cacti family grow straight up to 12 meters and reach 2,200 kilograms of weight during water saturation. Saguaros increase in size very little per year. During its first ten years a saguaro grows no more than 2.5 centimeters annually. The cactus requires 50 to 70 years to grow to a height of 6 feet before developing its recognizable arms. At a century mark, saguaros usually stand between 24 and 32 feet tall. Slow steady development lets saguaros fit into their desert setting making them a living symbol of survival and life span.

Can you Eat Saguaros, and What do they Cost?

For many generations aboriginal populations have used saguaros as a source of valuable nutritious red fruit. During summer the fruit of this cactus reaches ripeness and offers sweet juice alongside 2000 small seeds. People eat saguaro fruit directly or process it into various products including dry ingredients, syrup, jam and wine. Official rules control saguaro fruit collection because these plants form a critical role in desert habitat. Consumers interested in saguaro products must check local availability while spending between $20 and $50 for small amounts. People who damage or remove saguaros face severe penalties because official permission is needed to handle these species.