There are four major deserts in the Southwestern USA. They are the Great Basin, Mojave, Sonoran and Chihuahuan. Many of the desert plants will be found in all deserts - but the Saguaro will only be found in the Sonoran Desert. It’s about time I help you with how to pronounce Saguaro. The G is silent. Practice with this pronunciation - So-Wahr-Oh. Say that a few times and you have got it !!
So how rare is it to spot a Crested Saguaro? Actually very. Only about 1 in 200,000 Saguaro’s develop a crest. Scientists are still not sure of the reason for this rare mutation.
The very rare Crested Saguaro
The Sonoran Desert is not only about the mighty Saguaro, it’s a beautiful colour display of over 4,000 different plant species. Especially in the spring with a little rain, the desert comes alive in vibrant colours - beautiful.
Growth of a Saguaro Cactus (So-Wahr-Oh) is extremely slow with a growth rate of only to 1 to 1 & 1/2 inches a year. An 18ft Saguaro is between 75 & 100 years old. Actually a Saguaro won't develop branches (arms) until it’s 75 years old. Pretty incredible.
Another beautiful Sonoran Sunset.
Hopefully these photos will have inspired you to consider a hike - in one of natures most spectacular deserts..