Arizona
A few weeks ago our friends Mal and Marsha showed us our first crested cactus near Why Arizona. It took our breath away. Since then we have been looking for them as we travel in Arizona.
Crested cactus (or crestations) are rare events. It only happens with Saguaro cactus once every 200,000 times. Over 50 different types of cactus can develop them. However, we have only seen them with Saguaro's and Organ Pipe Cactus.
A crest develops when the growing point elongates into a line. In time the growing line becomes very convoluted. Check out some of our pictures below. Each one is unique. They are also called fascinations. I think that's a perfect term for them.
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| Debbie walking out to one she spotted along the highway |
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| The first crested cactus we found |
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| Arizona Museum |
It is not really known what causes the phenomena. It may be due to injury or a bacteria infection.
This is an example of an organ pipe crestation. This is a small one found at Organ Pipe National Monument. Our friend, Bev, picked up the Desert Ranger booklet at the ranger station. She completed the program earlier and we enjoyed finding most the crested cactus in the booklet.
FYI - Junior Ranger programs at the National Parks are fun to do. They are free and not just for kids. Each one is written specific to the park and are very informative. After completion you can receive a patch or a pin. Congratulations Desert Ranger Bev!
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| Outside of Saguaro National Park |
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| Largest Organ Pipe Cactus in the park (also a crested cactus) |
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| Seen at Organ Pipe National Monument |
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| Near the highway from Tucson to Why |
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| What a beauty |
We have seen 11 so far and are continuing to search for more. Fascinating!
This is an example of an organ pipe crestation. This is a small one found at Organ Pipe National Monument. Our friend, Bev, picked up the Desert Ranger booklet at the ranger station. She completed the program earlier and we enjoyed finding most the crested cactus in the booklet. 
