Art Destination Argentina
Art, cultural and historical heritage, archaeological sites and spectacular landscapes in different places and regions of Argentina.
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From the upper area there is a wide view over the settlement and the valley. At the top right is the southern fortress.
On the sliding photos you can see details of flowering Cardón cactuses.
© Photos: Haupt & Binder, Universes in Universe
Art, cultural and historical heritage, archaeological sites and spectacular landscapes in different places and regions of Argentina.
Trichocereus atacamensis, known as "cardón" or "pasacana" is a cactus species characteristic of northwestern Argentina.
Its cylindrical trunk can reach 50 cm in diameter, and up to 15 m in height forming candelabra-like branches, with thorns up to 15 cm long. It is a plant of high longevity, but of slow growth. A 10 m tall cardón can be around 180 years old. It grows on rocky slopes and plains, withstanding extreme conditions of cold and aridity at an altitude between 2,000 and 3,500 meters.
Its structural tissue hardens when it dries, from which is obtained what is known as cardón wood, traditionally used in construction, especially for the beams and roof trusses.
At present, the cardón is a protected species. It is forbidden to cut it, and only the production of handicrafts with fallen or dried specimens is authorized.
Flowers of cardón are yellowish white. The fruit is sweet and is used in the elaboration of jams or syrups.