In the heart of the scorching Sonoran Desert lives the majestic saguaro cacti. Standing tall and mighty, the saguaro is the largest cactus species in the U.S. They are iconic symbols of the Southwest and hold a vital role in Arizona’s climate, biodiversity and the culture of Native American people.

saguaros
Photo Credit: Desert Botanical Gardens
saguaro
Photo Credit: Ireland Fleck at Desert Botanical Garden

While saguaros thrive in the desert, climate change and other environmental factors have made their habitat too hot and dry for these succulents to handle. The somber reality is that Arizona’s beloved saguaro cacti are dying. As the climate conditions continue to rise and more saguaros die, the consequences for Arizona’s wildlife and biodiversity are severe.