Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden, South Africa

Common name: Saguaro

Family: Cactaceae (Cactus)

Synonym: Cereus giganteus

Distribution: Sonoran Desert, North America

IUCN Red list: Least concern

Life form: Succulent plant

Comments: Saguaros have a long lifespan. They may grow their first side arm any time from 75–100 years of age, but some never grow one at all. A Saguaro without arms is called a spear.
Saguaro spines are sometimes used as sewing needles and the ribs are used to make harvesting tools.