#4: The Colossal Cardon Cactus from the 1890s
Discovered in the 1890s in Mexico, the Cardon Cactus stands 26 feet tall and weighs over 22,000 pounds. Native to the deserts of the Baja California region in Mexico, this impressive cactus symbolizes resilience in arid landscapes. With its stature reaching up to 60 feet in height, the Cardon Cactus commands attention with its massive, ribbed columnar trunk and sprawling arms adorned with clusters of spines.
Endemic to northwestern Mexico, the Cardon Cactus is a testament to endurance, capable of living up to 300 years. These majestic giants play a vital role in their ecosystem, providing shelter and sustenance to various desert wildlife, including birds, bats, and insects. Despite the harsh conditions of their habitat, Cardon Cacti thrive, adapting to survive in one of the world’s most unforgiving environments.