Cristate or “crested” saguaros form when the cells in the growing stem begin to divide outward, rather than in the circular pattern of a normal cactus. The cactus then grows in a fan-shaped crest at its apex instead of the regular arm pattern. Scientists aren’t sure exactly whether this mutation is the result of genetics or an external trigger, but some suspect that frost could induce the crested shape. The rarity of crested saguaros make them a treat for all desert-dwellers that come across one. The UA was home to a crested saguaro for many years, but lost it to a particularly harsh frost. Thanks to Facilities Management and Planning, Design & Construction, a new crested saguaro was installed outside Old Main in 2015.
