Mexican Fence Post Cactus

Pachycereus marginatus

Mexican Fence Post Cactus 15 Gallon Container Size

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Mexican Fence Post Cactus

Name: Mexican Fence Post Cactus
Brand: Plants Express
Price: 219.95 USD
Availability: InStock

Mexican Fence Post Cactus

Pachycereus marginatus

$219.95

Select Size: 15 Gallon

Product variants

Out of Stock

Currently, we only deliver within California. If your order will be delivered to that state, please change your Growing Zone above or in the menu.

Plant Type

Cactus, Succulent

Seasonality

Evergreen

Mature height

11-15 ft.

Mature Width

6-10 ft.

Sun exposure

Full Sun

Watering

Low

Growth Rate

Fast

Grows Well in Zones

9, 10, 11

Flowering Season

Spring, Summer

Attracts Wildlife

Pollinator, Bees

Characteristics

Flowering, Drought Tolerant

Special uses

Privacy, Containers

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Description

Mexican Fence Post Cactus (Pachycereus marginatus) is an excellent choice for creating living fences and enhancing narrow spaces. Under optimal conditions, it can grow between 1-2 feet per year, making it a striking option for gardeners looking to maximize vertical space. When planted in a row, its tall, upright columns can reach impressive heights of up to 15 feet, forming a stunning border as multiple stems develop from the base.

Notably, this cactus produces small, funnel-shaped pinkish-white flowers that bloom in late spring or summer, adding visual interest to its impressive stature. The dark green stems showcase 5 to 7 prominent ribs lined with areoles and short spines, giving it a unique texture that resembles white stitching or a zipper.

The Mexican Fence Post Cactus has undergone various reclassifications and may also be known as Lophocereus marginatus, Lemaireocereus marginatus, Stenocereus marginatus, or Cereus marginatus. Regardless of its name, it remains a stunning choice for drought-tolerant landscapes.

Plant Care

Planting - Choose a warm, sunny location with well-draining soil. If planting in the ground, space the cacti at least 3 to 4 feet apart to allow for their growth. When using containers, opt for pots with drainage holes filled with a quality cactus mix. Ensure good airflow around the plant to help prevent rot.

Watering - Pachycereus marginatus is drought-tolerant and prefers infrequent watering. During the growing season (summer), water deeply but allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering during the cooler winter months.

Fertilizing - Fertilize in early summer, using a diluted cactus fertilizer with a lower nitrogen ratio and higher phosphorus and potassium ratios to promote healthy growth and flowering.

Pruning - No pruning is necessary for the Mexican Fence Post cactus. However, if any stems become damaged or broken, you can cut them back to encourage healthy branching higher up on the stem.

Winter Hardiness - Pachycereus marginatus is hardy to 20°F, but it’s best to protect it from frost. The Mexican Fence Post cactus thrives in USDA zones 9-11.