Supported by a strong frame of woody ribs, they grow in spurts, mainly during the summer rainy season. The cacti assume odd shapes, sometimes appearing almost human. Killing freezes are a prime cause as well. Grazing cattle trampled the young saguaro for many years in the area. The cattle were removed beginning in the late 1950's, but it will be a long time before the saguaro forest recovers.
Today there are mainly very young and very old specimens.
Creamy white flowers, the state flower, appear in early May. There are many ways to enjoy the east Monument. 8-mile Cactus Forest Drive winds through the foothills of the Rincon mountains. Views are fantastic. About 2.2 miles into the drive you'll find the Mica View Picnic area to the north.