Scientific Name
Marginatocereus marginatus (DC.) Backeb.
Synonym(s)
Cereus marginatus, Lemaireocereus marginatus, Lophocereus marginatus, Pachycereus marginatus, Stenocereus marginatus
Common Name(s)
Mexican Fence Post Cactus, Fence Post Cactus, Central Mexico Pipe Organ, Organ Pipe Cactus, Mexican Organ Pipe Cactus, Organ Pipe, Organo
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Echinocereeae
Genus: Marginatocereus
Etymology
The specific epithet "marginatus" (pronounced "mar-jen-AY-tus") means "marginate; having a border or margin" and refers to the distinct ribs of this species, which are edged with slightly woolly areoles, often linked together, creating a pale-coloured line down the rib.
Origin
Marginatocereus marginatus is native to Central Mexico.
Description
Marginatocereus marginatus, formerly known as Pachycereus marginatus, is a columnar, basally clumping cactus with unbranched, dark green stems that have 5 to 7 ribs lined with slightly woolly areoles and clusters of spines. The mature specimens possess shorter spines than juveniles. The stems can grow up to 50 feet (15 m) tall and reach a diameter of up to 8 inches (20 cm). Each areole bears one central and 5 to 9 radial spines, all of which are whitish or slightly yellowish.
The nocturnal flowers are pink to greenish and appear in spring, measuring up to 1.6 inches (4 cm) in length. The spiny fruits are yellowish to reddish, contain many black seeds, and can grow 1.6 inches (4 cm) in diameter.
Forms of Marginatocereus marginatus
How to Grow and Care for Marginatocereus marginatus
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zone 9b to 11b: from 25°F (-3.9°C) to 50°F (10°C).
Like most other plants that can grow to staggering size, Pachycereus cacti grow extraordinarily slowly over hundreds of years. As a result, they require virtually zero assistance on your end, provided they are raised in a desert environment.
These extraordinarily low-maintenance plants can grow untouched for decades, so there is not much you need to worry about. However, they must receive adequate sun and heat and be careful around their spines. If grown in containers, ensure they are repotted and that their soil isn't too moist. Other than that, these plants are about as hands-off and straightforward as it gets.
Like most cacti and succulents, these plants propagate by cuttings. Sever a branch and replant in well-drained soil. Make sure to stand the cactus up in an empty container to let its ends heal before replanting; this will keep its stems in shape, and cacti with dried ends form roots more easily after planting.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Pachycereus.
Links
- Back to genus Marginatocereus
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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