Did you know? Arizona became a state on Feb. 14, 1912 and was last state between Canada and Mexico. At one point Arizona was also part of New Mexico and Mexico until it became a separate territory in 1863. Prior to becoming a state, the region was and still is today, land of many indigenous communities, such as Hopi, O’odham and Apache.
Fun State Facts
Arizona is famous for the 5 C’s. Citrus, Cotton, Climate, Copper and Cattle
Arizona’s iconic symbols include the state bird (Cactus Wren), state flower (Saguaro), state tree (Palo Verde) and state fish (Apache Trout)
Did you know that Arizona recently named a state dinosaur? It’s the Sonorasaurus
The saguaro cactus is the tallest cactus in the U.S.
Celebrate & Explore
To celebrate our fantastic state, head out on a‘Seek and Find’ quest perfect for kids to explore their surroundings.
Can you spot a Cactus Wren?
Check on a saguaro.
Can you find a Palo Verde?
The green trees are very puzzling to visitors–some even think they’re painted green.
Can you find an Agave?
Desert plants are well adapted to arid (dry) weather conditions. Agave store water in their thick, waxy leaves.
Can you spot a striped Whiptail Lizard?
You may have seen one doing pushups while walking the Garden’s trails. Lizards do push-ups to establish their territory and attract a mate.
Can you use your nose to locate a creosote bush?
Creosote is the most common plant in the Sonoran Desert. If you cup your hands around the leaves and breath in, you might smell the desert after a rain.
Can you find a mesquite tree and enjoy the shade?
See if you can spot any seedpods on the ground. Mesquite beans (seedpods) are an important food source for animals.
If you look up, can you spot the Cardons?
One of the Garden’s most famous cactus, Cardons are the tallest cactus in the entire cactus family. They look similar to Saguaro but do not have branching arms.
Can you find a Teddy Bear Cholla?
It may look soft and cuddly from a distance, but you do not want to hug this plant.
Bonus!
Discover something new you’ve never noticed before in your backyard or at the Garden. Look for a new plant, animal, insect or track on the desert floor.
