Plants That Grow in the Sonoran Desert

Cacti

• Because the Saguaro cactus is most popularly associated with the Sonoran desert, it is Arizona's state flower. This dynamic plant absorbs water during periods of drought and has an approximate lifespan of 200 years. Animals use this plant as a resource for water, food and housing, which makes the Saguaro a vital asset to the local wildlife.

  Like the Saguaro, the Agave is a source of food and water for many desert animal species. Its most famous use is as an ingredient in tequila drinks. However, it also has been used historically to make clothing, dye, medicine and soap.

  The Barrel cactus is one of the largest desert cacti on the North American continent. It is known for its ability to store large amounts of drinking water and candy is made from its pulp.

  Cholla plants come in many different varieties, and are identified by their separated joints and their constantly shedding spines, which stick to everything they touch. They often are considered a nuisance to most desert residents, but the plants have one redeeming characteristic in their popular edible fruit.

Trees

• The ironwood tree is a very important plant in the Sonora. By providing cover, shade and protection to more vulnerable plants, it creates a viable opportunity for new growth of vegetation and supports a large network of plants through its fertilization of the soil. Animals and insects eat the seed pods that shed from the trees, and over 150 species of birds live in their canopies to benefit from the cooler temperatures and shade of the branches. These trees tend to grow in washes and valleys, and are the tallest trees found in the region.

  Palo Verde trees are common in the Senora and are the state tree of Arizona. They shed their leaves when exposed to periods of drought and can grow to be 20 feet tall. They are similar to the ironwood tree for their ability to nurse smaller desert species, but they are more widely used by the local wildlife for nesting grounds. The seeds of the tree also are edible, and bees use Palo Verde flowers to produce honey.

  Mesquite trees are the predominant tree species found in washes and along the rivers of the Sonora. Native tribes used the wood from the tree for cooking and to make baskets, and the peas for a main staple food. Local animals also enjoy the seeds, flowers and pods as a main source for food.

Shrubs

• Creosote plants grow and thrive in the complete absence of water better than most plants in existence. They are known for the strong aromatic odor produced from the resin on their leaves. The plant displays bright yellow flowers during the spring and silver furry seed pods in the winter. Jackrabbits often use the root system of creosote as a site for their boroughs. Native tribes once commonly used the plant for its antiseptic properties.

  Ocotillo stems reach anywhere from 9 to 30 feet into the air and produce red flowers in the spring.