Uses of Saguaro Cactus After It Dies

Construction Materials

• Saguaro ribs have been used to make wattle and daub house walls. These portions of dead saguaro stems are strong but lightweight enough to be used as a roofing material atop stone structures.

Fuel and Fire-starting

• Dead saguaro cacti can be used as a fuel for fires, particularly friction fires. Saguaro ribs also provide suitable material for bowdrill sets. Sets consist of spindles and fireboards made of the ribs, which are used in combination with a wooden bow, bowstring and hard socket that are worked properly to start tinder on fire.

Saguaro Fruit Harvesting Tool

• The fruits that develop atop living saguaro cacti annually are traditionally harvested with a tool made from saguaro ribs that consists of long pieces and a crosspiece.

Splints and Canes

• The woody saguaro ribs have been used as splints for broken bones. Ribs are also suitable for use as canes or walking sticks.

Decorating and Furniture

• Saguaro cacti ribs have been incorporated into home decorations and furnishings. Native Americans used the ribs to make parts of babies' cradles. The boots from the saguaro, the calloused structures that form around holes made by nesting birds to prevent water loss, can be used as containers.

Considerations

• Anyone interested in harvesting saguaro, a federally protected species, from public lands, is required to obtain a permit for collection, even if the plant is dead.