The Sonoran Desert's lower elevations are home to the iconic saguaro cacti that are best known for their tall, tree-like appearance and ability to store water.

In the Sonoran Desert, which spans areas in the U.S. and Mexico, saguaro cacti are the most recognizable plant species in lower elevation regions. These cacti thrive in the arid, hot conditions of the desert and can grow up to 40 feet tall. They are adapted to store water in their tissues, allowing them to survive in the harsh, dry climate. In contrast, species like oak, pine, and birch trees are typically found in higher elevations or more temperate zones, not in the lower desert regions where saguaros dominate.