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Description
Pachycereus Pecten-Aboriginum, also known as the Mexican Fence Post cactus, is a tall, columnar cactus native to Mexico. It is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 20 feet in height and 5 feet in width. This cactus has a cylindrical shape and is covered in numerous spines that can be up to 2 inches long. It produces beautiful, white, nocturnal flowers that bloom in the summer months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Pachycereus |
Appearance
The Mexican Fence Post cactus has a striking appearance with its tall, columnar shape and numerous spines. It can grow up to 20 feet tall and 5 feet wide, making it an impressive addition to any garden or landscape. The spines are typically gray to brown in color and can be up to 2 inches long. The plant produces white flowers that bloom in the summer months and can be up to 5 inches in diameter.
Care Guide
To care for Pachycereus Pecten-Aboriginum, you should provide it with well-draining soil and full sun exposure. It is a drought-tolerant plant that does not require much water, but it is important to water it occasionally during the summer months. In terms of fertilization, you can use a cactus-specific fertilizer once a month during the growing season. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Mexican Fence Post cactus is generally a hardy and disease-resistant plant. However, it can sometimes be susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil. In terms of pests, the cactus can attract mealybugs and spider mites. You can control these pests by spraying the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap.
Habitat
Pachycereus Pecten-Aboriginum is native to Mexico and can be found growing in rocky, well-draining soil in desert regions. It is a slow-growing plant that can take up to 15 years to reach full maturity. In its natural habitat, this cactus provides food and shelter for a variety of desert animals.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Mexican Fence Post cactus?
A: This plant is drought-tolerant and does not require much water. Water it occasionally during the summer months, but allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again.
Q: What kind of soil is best for Pachycereus Pecten-Aboriginum?
A: This cactus prefers well-draining soil that is sandy or gravelly. Avoid planting it in heavy, clay soil.
Q: How tall can a Mexican Fence Post cactus grow?
A: This cactus can grow up to 20 feet tall and 5 feet wide.
Q: What kind of fertilizer should I use for Pachycereus Pecten-Aboriginum?
A: You can use a cactus-specific fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Pachycereus Pecten-Aboriginum:
- Pachycereus Marginatus
- Pachycereus Pringlei
- Pachycereus Schottii
References
- “Pachycereus pecten-aboriginum.” (n.d.). Cactus Art. Retrieved from http://www.cactus-art.biz/schede/PACHYCEREUS/Pachycereus_pecten-aboriginum/Pachycereus_pecten-aboriginum/Pachycereus_pecten-aboriginum.htm
- “Mexican Fence Post Cactus.” (n.d.). The Spruce. Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/mexican-fence-post-cactus-4691659
- “Pachycereus pecten-aboriginum (Mart.) Britton & Rose.” (n.d.). GBIF. Retrieved from https://www.gbif.org/species/2705821
