"Even when saguaro cacti grow in their normal form, they rarely grow symmetrically. Saguaros sometimes grow in odd or misshapen forms. The growing tip occasionally produces a fan-like form which is referred to as crested or cristate. Though these crested saguaros are somewhat rare, over 25 have been found within the boundaries of the park. (Saguaro National Park at Tuscon) Biologists disagree as to why some saguaros grow in this unusual form. Some speculate that it is a genetic mutation. Others say it is the result of a lightning strike or freeze damage. At this point we simply do not know what causes this rare, crested form." - from the National Park Service
Arizonian RV Park
March 2012
Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix
December 2008
Kelvin/Florence Road
March 2010
Kelvin/Florence Road
March 2012
Sonoran Desert Museum, Tuscon AZ
March 2011
Superstition Museum, Apache Junction
March 2007
San Tan Mountain Regional Park
March 2011
According to Joe Orman, this anomaly happens one in every 10,000 saguaros, but other sources say one in every 15,000. Whatever the happenstance I feel quite honored to have seen these six. Joe has spent lots of time and road miles documenting crested saguaro. Joe also says, "The deformity also occurs in other species of cactus, such as the organ pipe and barrel cactus." If you want to see more cristatae cactuses in the area, check out this website Joe Orman's Photo Page-Crested Cactuses
There is even a society that documents the crested saguaro cactus. Here is their website Crested Saguaro Society
Great blog Coleen, VERY INTERESTING! Good finds! Good eye!
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