In Search of Sagauro

We woke up this morning with excited anticipation and ready to get back on the road. The promise of warmer weather has us headed down to the valley. We are sad to say goodbye to these beautiful tall pines we have come to love.

The drive through the lower canyon is great, rough canyon walls but instead of pines we see more pinyon and cactus.  About an hour out we start seeing Saguaro Cactus.  First one, then more, and then a whole Forrest of them. 

 I guess we should not be surprised since Arizona is know for these giant beauties.  Here are some fun Saguaro facts:

• With the right growing conditions, saguaros can live to be as much as 150-200 years old.
• Saguaro are very slow growing cactus. A 10 year old plant might only be 1.5 inches tall. 
• Saguaro can grow to be between 40-60 feet tall. When rain is plentiful and the saguaro is fully hydrated it can weigh between 3200-4800 pounds. Making the saguaro the largest cactus in the United States. 
• The pure white waxy blossom of the giant saguaro cactus was designated the state flower of Arizona.  Sad for us, they are not in bloom just yet.