Family: Cactaceae
Common Name: Saguaro

Found growing naturally in Mexico, Arizona and southern California, this familiar, tree-like cactus is huge, sometimes growing to 15-20 m (50-65 ft) in height in its natural habitat. It is the largest of all the cactuses.

Species

C. gigantea, the only species, is very slow growing. It takes a long time to come to flowering, but the large, sweetly perfumed, white flowers, which bloom at night, are most attractive.

Cultivation

Except in the south and California this cactus is generally grown in an intermediate greenhouse, in pots of well-drained, alkaline cactus compost. It needs maximum light and airy conditions.

Climate

Zone 9.