Like the senator, the ribs or inward fiber of this singular plant are quite hard and tough and it can store enough resources to live for 2-3 years in conditions that would kill most others of its species. Saguaros are fiercely protected by their supporters and dealing with one directly is difficult and requires lengthy bureaucratic processes.
These guys have a relatively long life span. Saguaro’s take up to 75 years to develop a side arm. The arms themselves are grown to increase reproductive capacity (more apices equal more flowers and fruit). Similarly, you can tell a their age by looking at them, both become noticeabley weaker and loose their healthy look and vigor with time.
White topped flowers cap waxy stems and, (when dealing with a cactus of any sort) remember – they are prickly – and even with careful manipulation these specimens can and will lash out when you least expect it.

Saguaro Cactus – Carnegiea gigantea
1. Pricktacular, 2. saguaro flowers, 3. Saguaro Cactus, 4. Saguaro Cactus, 5. John., 6. Saguaro Cactus Flowers IMG_3956e, 7. Saguaro Cactus at our RV Park in Williams, AZ – 1, 8. Crown of Thorns – Saguaro Cactus, 9. Saguaro Cactus Sunset 2