"There is perhaps no more enduring symbol of Arizona than the majestic saguaro cactus, which begins its life as a shiny black seed equal in size to the head of a pin and can jut to over fifty feet within a lifespan that can exceed 150 years. At maturity it can weigh as much as eight tons, granting the saguaro the distinction of being the largest cactus in the United States. A fluted, cylinder shaped column distinguished by long, woody ribs that expand to store moisture for the dry season supports its huge bulk."
- Sen. Barry Goldwater (1909 - 1998)