Scientific Name
Marginatocereus marginatus f. cristatus (informal name)
Accepted Scientific Name
Marginatocereus marginatus (DC.) Backeb.
Synonym(s)
Cereus marginatus var. cristatus, Pachycereus marginatus f. cristatus (informal name)
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.
The formal epithet "cristatus" (pronounced "kris-TAY-tus") means "crested" or "tufted" and refers to the crested (fasciated) growth of the plant.
Origin of Marginatocereus marginatus f. cristatus
Marginatocereus marginatus f. cristatus is a crested form of Pachycereus marginatus. Although typically selected in cultivation, crested specimens of Pachycereus marginatus can occasionally be found in their native habitat in central Mexico.
Description of Marginatocereus marginatus f. cristatus
Marginatocereus marginatus f. cristatus, formerly known as Pachycereus marginatus f. cristatus, is a fascinating cactus that develops dark green, intricately designed stems with white, woolly areoles and short spines. Although it grows slowly, it can become quite large in time, making it a standing addition to any collection.
How to Grow and Care for Marginatocereus marginatus f. cristatus
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25°F (-3.9°C) to 50°F (10°C).
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 simple and hands-off as possible.
If you cultivate a small specimen in a container, repotting it can be helpful. If so, repot it as you would any other cactus by removing it from the pot, removing any dead material from the roots, and replanting. Watch out for the plant's spines; they can ruin your day.
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 off before you replant it. This will keep its stems shaped right, and cacti with dried ends form roots more easily after planting.
Learn 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
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.
