saguaro
Noun: 1. A very large, tree-like cactus species native to the Sonoran Desert in the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. It is characterized by a thick, columnar, and sparsely branched trunk, which can grow very tall. It produces white flowers and edible red fruit.
The word "saguaro" is used specifically to refer to this iconic cactus species (Carnegiea gigantea). It is a countable noun. * The landscape was dotted with majestic saguaros. * We saw a saguaro that was over 40 feet tall. * The saguaro cactus is a protected species in Arizona.
- The saguaro's pleated trunk expands to store water after rare desert rains.
- Birds often make nests in holes in the saguaro.
- The ripe red fruit of the saguaro is harvested to make syrup and jam.
- Saguaro National Park: A U.S. national park in Arizona named for and dedicated to the preservation of this cactus.
- We went hiking in Saguaro National Park.
- Saguaro cactus: A common full name for the plant, though "saguaro" alone is sufficient.
- Sahuaro: An alternate, less common spelling.
- Giant cactus
- Carnegiea gigantea (scientific name)
The term refers exclusively to this specific species of cactus. It is not a general term for any large cactus. Its unique shape—a tall, central column with arms that typically curve upward—makes it a symbol of the American Southwest.
- extremely large treelike cactus of desert regions of southwestern United States having a thick columnar sparsely branched trunk bearing white flowers and edible red pulpy fruit