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Basic Info
Carnegiae Gigantea is also commonly known as the Saguaro. It is the tallest cactus in the world. As the plant matures you can expect it to reach up to around 20 m (65ft) tall and about 75 cm (2.5ft) in diameter.
When trying to see the cacti flower you will have to wait until it has reached around 30 to 35 years of age and a minimum height of 2 m (6.6ft) tall. When it flowers you can expect white flower. It is the State wildflower Of Arizona.
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Echinocereeae
Genus: Carnegiea
Care and Propagation Information
Watering
Carnegiae Gigantea can be quite beautiful when it is well-taken care of. This succulent type needs typical watering as the other succulents. The watering method is very important to keep your cactus healthy.
It should not sit on the water, and an excess amount of water should be avoided. The best way of watering is soak and dry method this succulent. Yet, the succulent should be controlled to avoid overwatering.
General Care for Carnegiae Gigantea
This succulent type is a rare one which blooms in the spring. When it blooms, you will enjoy flowers. It is a nice addition to your collection of plants especially if you have it displayed in a beautiful pot.
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Quick Facts:
- Prefers full sun
- Can be grown outdoor
- Grows 20 m (65ft) tall
- Grows up to 75 cm (2.5ft) wide
- Can die easily if overwatered see: How to Water Succulent Plants
- Does not handle cold well
- Prefers Zone 8a-11b -12.2 °C (10 F)
- Best propagated by seeds
- Flower are white
- Fruit is edible
- State Wild Flower of Arizona
Where to Plant
Carnegiea Gigantea ‘Saguaro’ succulents need strong light. When planting this succulent type in a garden, make sure it gets sunlight. Full to partial sun is the best for its growth. It is better to grow outdoor rather than indoor.
This type of succulent prefers a warm climate. It can survive at zone 8a-11b which is around -12.2 °C (10 °F). If you live in a cold area, it is better to plant Saguaro in an indoor environment. As long as it gets enough sunlight, the plant will grow happily.
When selecting what pot to use be sure that you understand the difference between the material used (See our guide on how to pick the best plant pot).
How to Propagate Carnegiea Gigantea ‘Saguaro’
Saguaro can be propagated by seeds. This succulent type does not require repotting often. Of course, the first-time repotting is essential when it is bought from the store. You can learn all about How To Repot Succulents in our guide.
NOTE: It is illegal to procure a Saguaro Cactus for Home Cultivation by digging it out from the desert. In addition, the cactus almost always dies when transplanted.
Like all the other succulent types, a well-drained soil mixture is essential. If you want to know about well-drained soil mixtures, check How to Prepare Well-drained Soil for Succulent Plants.
How to Propagate Carnegiea Gigantea ‘Saguaro’ Using Seeds
This succulent type is a slow grower so even if it can be propagated by its seeds, this method is not recommended.
To propagate from the seeds, plant the seeds in a well-draining soil mixture. This method can be used outdoors. In cooler areas, indoor propagating is recommended.
Origin and Habitat
Saguaro is native to The United States (the state of Arizona and the Sonoran Desert) It can also be found in the Mexican state of Sonora.
