Although often depicted as a symbol of the West,
the Saguaro is only found in the Sonoran Desert in Arizona and a small area in California.
The cactus grows slowly, about an inch a year reaching heights up to 50 feet.
They take up to 75 years to develop a side arm.
This one next to 6'4" Rick is well over 30 feet.
The skin is waxy and ribbed with 2 inch spines.
When the cactus absorbs water the ribs expand like an accordion.
Birds such as the Gila woodpecker build holes in the cactus for nesting.
The cactus will form a callous on the wound in order to retain moisture.
Saguaro is pronounced "sah wah ro".
Mispronouncing the word will tag you immediately as a tourist!
No comments:
Post a Comment