The saguaro is the largest cacti, reaching up to 50 feet high. Plants can weigh up to 8 tons, partly because of the large amount of water the stems can hold. After a rainfall, the saguaro cactus can absorb hundreds of gallons in a short time. The saguaro is a tall, thick, columnar cactus with spines and stems. It generally has several large, erect, or twisted branches.
Saguaros can live for several centuries.
They are one of the slowest growing of all cacti. The saguaro may be only 6 inches high after 10 years, with the characteristic branches appearing after many decades. In the spring, the saguaro produces white flowers on the upper stems of mature plants. Later, sweet edible red fruit appears. The local Indians used these for food and also to make wine.