The Giant Saguaro Cactus
By far the largest cactus growing in the U.S., the Giant Saguaro (Cereus giganteus) grows to 50 feet and in age branches like a candelabra. This giant dominates the landscape throughout the Arizona Sonoran desert. Beginning in May, the large creamy white flowers open in the evening and remain open well into the next day. Bats are one of the important pollinators for this incredible cactus that has been used by Native Americans for food and construction materials. When ripe, the bright red fruit is harvested and used in preserves and beverages. The stiff, woody ribs of dead Saguaro have traditionally been used in building and fencing. Life for a Saguaro begins as the young plants take root under the shady protection of a nursery tree such as a Paloverde until they finally grow above the other vegetation to take their place as the largest plants in the desert.

Arizona ranks first among the states for both variety and abundance of cactus. Found just a little north and east of where Saguaro dominate the landscape, The Giant Hedgehog cactus of the Central Arizona mountains south of Superior is featured in the Beautiful Rare Cactus Screen Saver and the Flowers and Cactus Fine Print Gallery. Any visit to Arizona would not be complete without including The Grand Canyon in the itinerary. Grand Canyon National Park remains one of the wonders of the world with 2 different views featured in the National Parks Screen Saver, the Red Rock Canyons Screen Saver, and the Mountains and Canyons Screen Saver.

Link to Saguaro National Park Home Page ►

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