Other cacti in the area are nopal, pitahaya, cholla, yucca and agave. This area is fertile ground for over 80 varieties of cacti that are found nowhere else.

Boo Jum

The boojum is another non-cactus vegetable. It looks like a huge carrot standing upside down.

It has leaves but no branches and grows at the rate of a little more than one inch per year. Specimens having a height of 40 feet may be around 400 years old.

Rock Garden

You will find cyclopean boulders shaped by the wind along millions of years, and will be surprised by unique flora beautifully coexisting among hard granite rocks and natural fresh water pools.

Missions

If Colonial architecture attracts you, then try to visit San Fernando Velicata and Santa Maria missions. Both dating back to the 18th Century.

These relics are easily accessible from the town.

Lodging

• Parque El Palmerito. Campsites, eco-friendly bathrooms, museum, hiking trails, picnic areas. $10 per vehicle per day. Phone 661-614-9010.
• Desert Inn. Upscale hotel with pool and large nice clean rooms and pretty desert scenary.
  Reservations: 1-800-262-4500
• Cabañas de Linda. The rustic rooms are clean. Budget, around $35. Located at the north end of town.
• Rancho Santa Ines. Campers and RVs allowed to stay for free. Really budget.