Page 43 - Edible Trees For Tucson

P L ANTIN G N O TES
Saguaro grows naturally in Sonoran desert scrub
on mountain bajadas. In their natural habitat,
saguaros may occur on all slopes and aspects, but
most grow on south facing slopes. They grow at
elevations from sea level to 4,000 feet.
• Chill hours: None required.
• Height/Width: 10-50 feet tall and 6-30 inches
in diameter.
• Lifespan: 150-200 years.
• Water needs: A desert-adapted species that
can tolerate long periods of drought.
• Soils: Prefer well-drained, shallow soils that
are light, coarse textured, and rocky
• Microclimates: Saguaros are hardy to about
14ºF. Young saguaros often sprout and grow
under the protection of a “nurse tree.”
• Pollination: Nocturnal (nectar-feeding bats)
and diurnal (bees and doves) insects and
animals pollinate saguaro flowers.
CARE
Saguaros are susceptible to bacteria necrosis.
Treat the affected area with a solution of 10%
bleach and the wound will heal alone.

H AR VES T
Fruits are traditionally harvested when dark red
and ripe, just before the summer monsoons.
The Tohono O’odham harvest saguaro fruit,
called ha:sañ bahidaj during June and July
with the a ku’ipad, a long stick made of one or
several saguaro ribs tied together. The fruit can
be processed into syrup, jellies, and wine. The
saguaro seeds can be strained from the pulp,
rinsed, dried, and ground into coarse flour.

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