Mexican Fence Post Cactus
(Pachycereus marginatus)
Mexican Fence Post Cactus (Pachycereus marginatus)
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Amante Darmanin
CC BY 2.0
Image By:
Amante Darmanin
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 2.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Amante Darmanin | License Type: CC BY 2.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/ | Uploader: amantedar | Publisher: Flickr |















Estimated Native Range
Summary
Pachycereus marginatus, commonly known as Mexican Fence Post Cactus, is an evergreen succulent native to the arid and semi-arid regions of Central Mexico. It is characterized by its columnar trunks that grow slowly to 12 feet (3.7 m) tall and may eventually reach up to 20 feet (6.1 m) in height. The stems are 3 to 4 inches (9–10 cm) in diameter, with 5 to 7 prominent ribs. The central spine is about 3/8 inch (1 cm) in diameter with five to nine radials and is slightly yellowish, which is less intimidating than the spines of more aggressive cacti species. This cactus is notable for its pink and red flowers that bloom in the spring, adding a splash of color to the landscape.
The Mexican Fence Post Cactus is valued for its vertical form and ease of maintenance, making it a popular choice for creating living fences in dry climates, as well as for use in xeriscaping and as a dramatic accent in succulent gardens. It thrives in full sun and requires minimal water, making it suitable for drought-tolerant landscapes. It prefers well-draining soils and is tolerant of poor soil conditions. While it is generally free of serious pests and diseases, root rot can occur if overwatered. It is also frost-sensitive and should be protected from freezing temperatures.CC BY-SA 4.0
The Mexican Fence Post Cactus is valued for its vertical form and ease of maintenance, making it a popular choice for creating living fences in dry climates, as well as for use in xeriscaping and as a dramatic accent in succulent gardens. It thrives in full sun and requires minimal water, making it suitable for drought-tolerant landscapes. It prefers well-draining soils and is tolerant of poor soil conditions. While it is generally free of serious pests and diseases, root rot can occur if overwatered. It is also frost-sensitive and should be protected from freezing temperatures.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Succulent
- Height: 0.3-0.5 feet
- Width: 0.2-0.3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate, Rapid
- Flower Color: Pink, Red
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low, Very Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Bird Garden, Drought Tolerant, Fire Resistant, Low Maintenance, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Native to arid and semi-arid regions of Central Mexico
Other Names
Common Names: Mexican Organ Pipe Cactus, Orgelpfeifenkaktus, Chilayo, Órgano, Kantpelarkaktus
Scientific Names: , Pachycereus marginatus, Cereus marginatus, Lemaireocereus marginatus, Marginatocereus marginatus, Lophocereus marginatus, Stenocereus marginatus, Echinopsis gemmata, Cereus cupulatus, Cereus gemmatus
GBIF Accepted Name: Pachycereus marginatus (DC.) Britton & Rose