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Description
Pachycereus Marginatus, also known as Mexican Fencepost Cactus, is a columnar cactus native to Mexico. It belongs to the family Cactaceae and is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and homes. The plant can grow up to 20 feet tall and can spread up to 6 feet wide. The stem of the cactus is green, and it has 5-9 ribs with sharp spines that can grow up to 2 inches long. During the summer, the plant produces beautiful white flowers that bloom at night and close in the morning.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Pachycereus |
Appearance
The Pachycereus Marginatus is a tall and slender cactus with a green stem that can grow up to 20 feet tall. The stem has 5-9 ribs with sharp spines that can grow up to 2 inches long. During the summer, the plant produces beautiful white flowers that bloom at night and close in the morning. The flowers are around 3 inches wide and have a pleasant fragrance. The plant can also produce edible fruits that are red or yellow and taste like strawberries.
Care Guide
Water: Pachycereus Marginatus does not require frequent watering. Water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch. During the winter, reduce watering to once a month.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season from spring to fall.Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix of sand, perlite, and peat moss can work well.Sunlight: Place the plant in a location that receives full sun or partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Pachycereus Marginatus is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pachycereus Marginatus is susceptible to pests and diseases, including:Mealybugs: These pests can be identified by the white cotton-like substance on the plant. Use insecticidal soap or alcohol to remove them.Scale insects: These pests can be identified by the brown or black bumps on the plant. Use insecticidal soap or alcohol to remove them.Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot. Reduce watering and improve drainage to prevent this disease.
Habitat
Pachycereus Marginatus is native to Mexico, where it grows in dry and rocky areas. The plant can tolerate hot and dry conditions and can survive in poor soil.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Pachycereus Marginatus?A: Water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Pachycereus Marginatus?A: Pachycereus Marginatus is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.Q: Can Pachycereus Marginatus be grown indoors?A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives enough sunlight.Q: How tall can Pachycereus Marginatus grow?A: Pachycereus Marginatus can grow up to 20 feet tall.
Related Plants
- Pachycereus Pringlei
- Carnegiea Gigantea
- Opuntia Ficus-Indica
- Mammillaria Spinosissima
References
- “Pachycereus Marginatus.” Arizona State University. Accessed August 31, 2021. https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapai/anr/hort/byg/archive/pachycereusmarginatus.html.
- “Mexican Fence Post Cactus.” The Spruce. Accessed August 31, 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/mexican-fence-post-cactus-1902980.
- “Pachycereus Marginatus.” World of Succulents. Accessed August 31, 2021. https://worldofsucculents.com/pachycereus-marginatus-mexican-fencepost-cactus/.
