Pot Size: 2.5"
Accepted Scientific Name: Pachycereus marginatus
Origin and Habitat:
Pachycereus marginatus, commonly known as the Mexican Fence Post cactus, is native to central Mexico, where it grows in arid and semi-arid regions such as Hidalgo, Puebla, and Oaxaca. It thrives in rocky, well-drained soils along hillsides, valleys, and desert flats, often forming dense stands. The climate in its native habitat is hot and dry with occasional summer rains. This species is adapted to full sun, extreme drought, and nutrient-poor conditions. In its natural range, it is sometimes used in living fences, as its upright stems root easily and form barriers.
Description:
This stately columnar cactus grows vertically to heights of 10–20 ft (120–240 in) and can reach 4–8 in in diameter per stem. It has a smooth, cylindrical shape with 5–7 pronounced ribs and small, regularly spaced clusters of spines along the margins. The skin is bright to medium green. In early summer, mature plants produce tubular, pinkish-white flowers about 2 in long near the tops of stems, followed by small, spiny fruits.
Cultivation:
Zone: USDA 9–11
Temperature: Prefers 15–35 °C; can tolerate brief dips to –4 °C if kept dry
Growth rate: Moderate to fast under warm, bright conditions
Soil: Use a gritty mix of 2 parts pumice to 1 part peat or cactus soil
Watering: Water thoroughly when soil is dry; reduce drastically in winter
Fertilizing: Feed with a diluted cactus fertilizer every 2–3 weeks during, (spring to mid Aug)
Light: Requires full sun; at least 6 hours daily to maintain upright form and healthy color
Pests and Diseases: Watch for mealybugs, spider mites, and root rot in poorly drained soils; otherwise generally pest-resistant
Propagation:
Propagate by stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. Allow cuttings to callous for several days before rooting in dry pumice-rich soil. Can also be grown from seed, though much slower.
