Carnegiea gigantea
Saguaro Cactus
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Saguaro Cactus (Carnegiea gigantea) - Description
C. gigantea is a long-lived desert native, which grows very slowly. In May and June it puts on its show of 3" wide white flowers with yellow throats. This official flower of the state of Arizona is a nocturnal bloomer and closes by noon once things start to warm up for the day. It bears edible oval fruits, which open to show red pulp. It is their sheer size and ability to hold water that makes them a wonder of the desert. The outer skin of the Saguaro Cactus expands out when absorbing water during the rainy season to hold upwards of a ton of extra water to last through the dry season.
Saguaro Cactus (Carnegiea gigantea) - Blooming
Blooming occurs only at night, when nocturnal animals and insect pollinate. Followed by juicy, spiny fruits with red interiors and black seeds.
Saguaro Cactus (Carnegiea gigantea) - Growth
Although Saguaro cacti average around 25 ft. tall, they can reach even taller. They can grow very slowly to 50 ft. tall. In 30 years, a Saguaro cactus may only be 3 ft. tall. They will generally branch at 15 ft. tall. Does best with full sun. Will not grow in areas with saline soil or periods of deep freezing. However, Saguaro cacti can withstand brief spells of 20°F (-7°C) weather.In areas where Carnegiea is not hardy, raise plants in a warm greenhouse. A warm greenhouse has a minimum temperature of 55°F (13°C). During the day, temperatures should be set to 55-64°F (13-18°C) or above, and at night, the temperature should be at 55°F (13°C).Carnegiea likes warm, dry climates.
Saguaro Cactus (Carnegiea gigantea) - Planting
Saguaro cacti need some protection from frost when young. In the wild they are most successful when they germinate underneath another shrub, which they eventually grow through. The shrub provides some protection as they develop.
Saguaro Cactus (Carnegiea gigantea) - Pest
Most animals (like birds, insects and bats) that visit the Saguaro are beneficial in their ability to pollinate Saguaro flowers. Owls and woodpeckers frequently hollow out areas in which to nest, but the resulting scar tissue is actually one of the hardiest parts of the plant.
Saguaro Cactus (Carnegiea gigantea) - Interesting facts
The Saguaro cactus is a protected species, and should be selected with mind as to whether the specimen was legally obtained. The white Saguaro flower is the state flower of Arizona.
Saguaro Cactus (Carnegiea gigantea) - Soil and irrigation
Needs good drainage and very little to no irrigation; however, irrigating on a monthly basis will increase the rate of growth. Prefers gritty, slightly alkaline soil that is humus-rich.
