How to Draw a Saguaro Cactus
The giant saguaro cactus is one of the most famous and well known species of cactus. Adults and children alike will both enjoy learning to draw realistic and cartoon versions of the saguaro. The saguaro cactus is an easy way to open a drawing class or section on plant life or desert scenes. The saguaro cactus is a symbol for both Arizona and the Sonoran Desert.
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Instructions
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Draw a horizon line in the bottom quarter of the paper to draw the first saguaro cactus. Draw the line lightly with a pencil or artist pencil, most of this line will be erased or colored over later.
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Draw the stem or trunk of the saguaro cactus by drawing two vertical lines with a rounded top; or by starting on the horizon line, drawing a line up, a rounded top and a line back down ending at the horizon line. The stem will be tapered or rounded at the top. It is helpful to look at live saguaro or a photograph of one while drawing.
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Add one or several arms to your saguaro cactus. Saguaros come in a variety of sizes and heights with multiple arms. Typically the arms are in the shape of a one-sided U.
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Draw the pleats of the saguaro. Start at the top of the cactus stem in the middle and draw a line straight down. Add lines to the left and right of the line at a close distance apart across the entire stem. Then add pleat lines for the arms.
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The saguaro flowers have short white petals surrounding a large yellow center. Add saguaro flowers or fruit to the stem and arms. Study photographs of flowers and fruit to add detailed versions. The saguaro flowers have short white petals surrounding a larger pale yellow-tan center.
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Add other details, such as an owl hole with an elf owl, or more saguaro cactus, desert plants or desert animals. Add color with colored pencils, chalks or paints to highlight your Saguaro cactus or other elements.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit NA/AbleStock.com/Getty Images Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
