The Saguaro Cactus (Carnegiea gigantea) is the iconic giant cactus of the American Southwest, offered here as a large established specimen in a 97.2 quart (approximately 25 gallon) container. Native to the Sonoran Desert spanning parts of Arizona, California, and northwestern Mexico, this slow-growing desert plant can reach up to 60 feet tall and live for more than 200 years in its natural habitat. Costco's Phoenix-area stores periodically carry these impressive specimens, representing a competitive value for a cactus of this size and maturity.

This plant features the Saguaro's characteristic ribbed, columnar trunk with long, sharp protective spines and a tough waxy exterior that helps lock in moisture during prolonged droughts. Despite its imposing stature, the Saguaro is exceptionally low-maintenance: it requires full sun (6 or more hours daily), infrequent deep watering, and fast-draining soil. Established plants can tolerate brief cold snaps down to 23°F and are suited to USDA hardiness zones 8 through 11. The plant is deer-resistant, pest-resistant, and rated non-toxic to humans and pets by the ASPCA, though its sharp spines require careful handling.

In late spring and summer, mature Saguaros produce large, fragrant white flowers (3 to 4 inches across) that open at night and attract bats, hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. Flowers develop into bright red edible fruits that provide a vital food source for desert wildlife. Saguaros are legally protected throughout their native range in Arizona; transplanting wild specimens is prohibited, making nursery-grown stock the only lawful source for landscaping.