Saguaro Cactus
Overview
Saguaros can grow up to 60 feet tall and live more than 200 years - some of the saguaros U.S. Marshal Wyatt Earp saw in the 1880s are likely still alive. Whether you own a saguaro and need care information or just want to learn, our experts can help you with information about this icon of the Sonoran Desert.
Life Cycle
Early Life
Saguaros often mature in the shade of mesquite, paloverde or ironwood trees. They grow about 1-1.5 inches per year, but this can vary depending on location and rainfall. Young saguaros grow as a single trunk that produces flowers at about 35 years.
Reproduction
The saguaro blossom, Arizona's state flower, usually is open for one day only and is pollinated by bats, birds and insects. Seeds are spread by birds and other animals that eat the fruit. Each fruit can have up to 2,000 seeds.
Maturity
After about 50-70 years, depending on conditions, saguaros may begin to grow arms. An old saguaro may produce more than 20 arms. Saguaros continue to grow and add arms until they die, usually between 150-175 years. Some live more than 200 years.
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