Did you know that the saguaro cactus is one of the most common cactuses found growing in Arizona state?All cacti belong to the cactus family Cactaceae, which have about 127 genera and 1750 species found all over the world. The word ‘cactus’ is derived from an ancient Greek word ‘kaktos’, which was a name used for a thorny plant.Although several cacti can be found in humid or tropical zones, most species of cactus are found in areas that are subject to droughts quite often. This is because cacti have adapted themselves to survive in conditions with the least levels of moisture and water so much so that too much water can actually kill them. Almost all cacti belong to the category of succulents, which are plants that have adapted thick, fleshy parts especially for storing water within. This process usually takes place in the stem, as most cacti have lost their leaves and instead have sharp leaves like needles or tightly coiled leaves which help them store and conserve water in extreme heat.Some of the most well-known cactus family members from Arizona are prickly pear cactus, hedgehog cactus, barrel cactus, organ pipe cactus, prickly pear cactus jumping cholla or teddy bear cholla, and saguaros.The state of Arizona has a huge desert that grows a species of cacti which can be found only in this region, yet is famous worldwide for its representation of the wild west. It is a cactus named habitat saguaros found in the Sonoran desert.After reading the flowers and fruits of cactuses found in the Arizona desert, also check facts about Arizona flag meaning and arms race facts.Species Of Cactuses Present In ArizonaThere are several species of cactus that can be found in Arizona, but the most abundant and frequently found species is saguaro. Saguaro cactus can be easily recognized from its large, tree-like column and small, protruding branches. Saguaros belong to the genus Carnegiea and are also known for being the largest cactus in the United States.Saguaro cactus can grow up to a height of about 40 ft (12.19 m) tall. It is covered in protective spines which are covered with thorns. Saguaro cactus has a long lifespan of about 150-175 years. These spines help the cactus with conserving water within its branches. Saguaro blooms with white flowers in spring which turns into fruit in summer.At about the age of 35 years, this cactus might start developing flowers or arms, which protrude from the straight column-like branches of the cactus. These arms help the cactus in increasing its reproductive capacity, which in turn leads to blooming flowers and fruits.This cactus is native to the Sonoran desert situated in the state of Arizona, USA, Whipple mountains, and the Imperial county of California as well as parts of Mexico. The Saguaro National Park, which is named after the species of this cactus, is designated for the preservation of this cactus. Prickly pear and jumping cholla cactuses are quite common trees in the Arizona desert.Saguaro Cactus Importance And SignificanceThe saguaro blossom, which is a white flower, was named as the territorial flower of the state of Arizona in March 1901. It was later declared as the state flower of Arizona in March 1931. The pictures of this cactus serve as a famous emblem to depict the cultural heritage of the southwest USA.Apart from that, saguaro cactus is an important source of food for native Americans, especially a tribe of people called Tohono O’odham and Pima, who pick the red fruit of saguaro cactus to turn it into jellies, syrups, and wines, sometimes even eaten raw.There is a ritual of consuming wine, a syrup made from the saguaro, within the Tohono O’odham tribe during a ceremony known as the rain ceremony. These people generally pick these fruits with the help of poles made from the ribs of the same cactus. These ribs can also be used for making furniture, roofs, and fences as it is very strong and durable.Apart from humans, this cactus supports the ecosystem by providing shelter and food resources to many birds and animals. Small birds tend to make cavities in the branches of this cactus, which provides them with safe shelter. Larger birds opt to build nests between the arms of this cactus. Many animals and insects like birds, bats, various reptiles, and insects depend on the nectar, fruits, and moisture that the saguaro cactus provides.Taking Care Of Saguaro CactusIn the state of Arizona, harming or vandalizing any cactus of saguaro, by shooting them or cutting them, or feeling them, is an illegal act.People need to obtain a permit if they wish to cut down any saguaro cactus within their property if it is becoming a hindrance or a danger to humans. Also, it is illegal to dig out any saguaro cactus from the desert to grow it at home, or indoors.Apart from that, if one is growing a small cactus inside their home, see to it that the pot is kept in a place with abundant sunlight. A heated greenhouse can be a preferable option as the cactus are used to being in high temperatures.It is a misconception that cacti don’t need water to grow. Rather, cacti can grow in a healthy manner if provided with adequate water and also grow beautiful fruits and flowers during the seasons. Moderately water your saguaro cactus during spring and summer, during active seasons, and occasionally during their dormant seasons, winter and autumn.Keep away any stray exotic plants and grasses like buffelgrass, fountain grass, or red brome, as they can compete with your cactus for nutrition.How much water should cactuses receive in Arizona?A saguaro cactus can survive through drought-like conditions for an extended period of time. This is possible because the stem system of this cacti can store a considerable amount of rainwater and use it in periods of drought.This phenomenon also changes the cactus visibly by increasing its girth, and the saguaro cactus can swell or shrink up to 20-25% while adapting to climatic conditions in order to conserve water.Also, this cactus has an intricate root system, where most of the roots expand just below the surface of the earth creating a dense web so as to absorb any amount of rainwater immediately before it can dry. A single root called taproot goes straight into the earth for up to 5 ft (1.52 m) to find water which is stored deep underground. Hence, cacti in Arizona can survive on very less water, even a couple of bouts of rainfall are enough to keep them surviving in the arid desert. A saguaro dies usually when it reaches the end of its lifespan.Some of the most common cactuses in Arizona are the hedgehog cactus, barrel cactus, prickly pear cactus, teddy bear cholla, or jumping cholla.Here at Kidadl, we have carefully created lots of interesting family-friendly facts for everyone to enjoy! If you liked our suggestions for Arizona cactuses: must know saguaro cactus facts for kids! then why not take a look at 61 amazing Arabian Desert facts: could you survive in this desert? or what do camels eat? Daily diet, nutrition, and fun facts.
Did you know that the saguaro cactus is one of the most common cactuses found growing in Arizona state?
