Mexican Fence Post - Pachycereus marginatus

Other common names: Central Mexico pipe organ, fence post cactus

Size (HXW): 4 Ft X 20 Ft

USDA Hardiness zones: 9b-11

Sun requirement: Full sun to part shade. Full shade will lead to scale and rot.

Water requirement: Water when very dry.

Plant description: The Pachycereus marginatus is a stately and pronounced cactus. It stands tall and upright, up to 20 feet tall. The fence post cactus can be planted side by side to create a wicked living fence! It has a smooth trunk with small thorns along the white spines. Very neat accent piece, does well in a planter. It is frost sensitive, if frost is in the forecast cover the top with an old t-shirt, foam cup or wash cloth. Water very little in the winter as it does not grow until it is warm.

Similar suggested plants: organ pipe cactus, totem pole cactus, saguaro

Bloom period: March-April, bright red flowers which form on the white spines of the cactus

Planting and growing information: Dig a hole in well-draining, sandy soil. Plant cactus and tap down to pack in soil. Water immediately, then every 10-14 days the first summer.

Photos:

The Mexican fence post cactus can grow a foot or two a year once established.