![]() The Saguaro Cactus flowers during late spring into early summer. The extension root system also acts to support the cactus, keeping it anchored and upright during the winds that often accompany rainstorms. The water collected is then stored in the cactus to provide hydration during dry periods in the desert. ![]() The summer monsoons that bring rain to the Sonoran Desert often last only a few minutes so the widespread net of a Saguaro’s root systems acts to quickly absorb any water before it runs off. The main roots of the cactus are covered in special hairs that serve to collect as much as 200 gallons during a rainfall. The taproot serves to access underground water in the desert. ![]() Saguaro roots are only around 3-5 inches deep, but they extend out in a radius as long as the plant is tall. While the tap root of the Saguaro Cactus extends about five feet into the soil, the overall root system of the plant is very shallow. Saguaro cactus are believed to live on average between 150 – 175 yearsalthough some cactus may reach 200 years old. Biologists don’t know what determines whether or not a the cactus grows branches. A mature Saguaro Cactus may have several branches or none at all. The iconic arms (also known as branches) of the Saguaro Cactus only start to appear when the cactus is about 95-100 years old and around 15-16 feet tall.Īround 125 years old, the Saguaro Cactus is considered an adult. Around 70 years old, Saguaro Cactus reach about six feet in height. The massive heights of the Saguaro Cactus are only reached after a very long period of growth. Photo: Alice Wondrak Biel / NPS, public domain. A young Saguaro Cactus growing under the protection of a green paloverde nurse tree.
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