In 1901 the saguaro’s blossom was adopted as the official territorial
flower, and later, in 1931, it was confirmed as the state flower. The saguaro
cactus typically blooms in May and June. It is one of the most unique state
flowers, and is characterized by having a waxy feel, but fragrant aroma. There
may be hundreds of flowers on a saguaro cactus that bloom just several at a time
over a period of more than a month. The saguaro flowers have a short life; they
open at night and close permanently during the next day. Many of the blossoms
will become pollinated and, later in the summer, the flowers become red-fleshed
fruits that are enjoyed by the local bird population.