Carnegiea gigantea - SAGUARO CACTUS
The saguaro cactus is one of the most iconic symbols of the American Southwest. Standing tall in the deserts of Arizona, California, and Mexico, the saguaro is not only impressive in size but also in longevity, with some specimens living 150-200 years. These majestic cacti are synonymous with the desert landscape and play a crucial role in the ecosystem, supporting a variety of wildlife. The saguaro blossom is the state flower of Arizona.
Details
Common Names: Saguaro, Carnegiea gigantea, Cereus giganteus, Pilocereus giganteus
Name Meaning: Carnegiea: A tribute to philanthropist Andrew Carnegie (who funded the Desert Botanical Laboratory in Tucson, Arizona); gigantea: Latin giganteus, "giant", referring to the impressive size of the saguaro cactus, which can grow to be over 40 feet tall.
Native Range: Plains, foothills, canyons, and washes of Southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico
Plant Family: Cactaceae (cacti)
Grow Zone (Hardiness): 8 - 11 (23°F) Find my zone
Bloom: Large white flowers spring through summer, followed by bright red fruits.
Light: Full sun
Soil: Well-draining
Water: Low
Growth Rate/Habit: Slow/Columnar
Mature Size: 40-60 ft. tall x 10-20 ft. wide
CACTUS IS SOLD AS A BARE ROOT SPECIMEN; IT WAS GERMINATED IN 2022.
We recommend planting this in our Cactus & Succulent Soil.
Photo 1 by Homer Edward Price/Flickr; photo 3 by Organ Pipe National Monument/Flickr