Which desert covers much of southern Arizona and northern Sonora in Mexico?

The Sonoran Desert covers much of southern Arizona and northern Sonora in Mexico.

It also extends into southeastern California and Baja California. Compared with many other North American deserts, the Sonoran receives two seasonal rainfall periods: winter storms and summer monsoon rains. This supports a relatively rich variety of plants and animals.

The iconic saguaro cactus is strongly associated with the Sonoran Desert. Saguaro National Park, near Tucson, Arizona, protects extensive stands of these tall, branching cacti. The desert also contains creosote bush, palo verde trees, and desert ironwood.

The Sonoran is often confused with the Mojave, but the Mojave lies farther north and is especially associated with Joshua trees. The Sonoran’s distinctive summer rainfall helps set it apart.