The Cardon cactus, known as 'Pachycereus pringlei', is the tallest cactus known to man, with a remarkable 60 feet height and the trunk can be up to 3 feet thick. This thick and large columnar cactus is native to Mexico. It can live for over 300 years.
It has several other common names such as Mexican giant cactus, Elephant cactus, or False Saguaro. This slow-growing cactus is well-known for its resilience in arid environments and its long lifespan, making it a popular choice for xeriscaping and desert-themed gardens.
With its columnar shape with a single trunk is sure to turn heads and add drama to any space.
As it ages, the cactus develops numerous arms or branches, which give it a tree-like appearance.
Its thick, water-storing tissues enable it to survive prolonged droughts.
Despite its slow growth, the Cardon can eventually dominate any landscape with its stately presence. Its ability to thrive in arid conditions makes it a resilient and iconic plant in desert environments.
When it comes to flowering, its white bell-shaped flowers bloom only for one day in the late afternoon and remain open until noon the next day. Each flower lasts for only a short period but is quickly replaced by new blooms, giving the cactus an ethereal beauty during its flowering season. The flowers eventually give way to small, fleshy fruits that are edible and consumed by native wildlife.
But don't be intimidated by its bold appearance - this Mexican giant cactus plant is easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of environments.
When and How to Water Your Cardon Cactus
Desert plants like the mexican giant cardon cacti are adapted to survive in harsh hot environments, storing water in their stems and trunks for months at a time. During summer, you should water them every 2-3 weeks or when the soil is dry. In winter, you may not need to water them at all.
Cactus, on the other hand, can go months without water and not die. However, if there is a severe drought or you forget to water them for over a month during the summer then it can lead to discoloration and a shriveling look as it consumes more of the water in its interior. When you water them, take care not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot and fungal infections.
Light Requirements - Where to Place Your Cardon Cactus
Providing enough light for these desert cacti is one of the most important aspects of their care.
If indoors, place your cactus directly in front of a west- or south-facing window. If they don't receive enough light, their stems may grow leggy and become paler, and their spines will shorten, so make your cactus happy and give it plenty of light.
When growing outdoors, it is important to grow the cardon cactus plant in areas that receive at least 4-6 hours of bright, direct light every day to keep them happy.
Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs
These false saguaro cardon plants favor very airy, sandy soil that drains well. Planting them in ordinary soil will result in compacted roots, stunted growth, and, most likely, root rot. Instead, make or buy a well-draining potting mix, or ideally, use our specialized potting mix that contains over 10 natural substrates and mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your cactus to thrive.
When it comes to fertilizing, remember that less is more. A small amount of natural or organic fertilizer once a year in spring will do wonders for your plant's health and growth. Using organic fertilizers also ensures that other beneficial compounds and microbes are added to the soil without the use of harsh chemicals. Show your succulent some love with awesome natural fertilizer and watch it thrive.
Hardiness Zones & More
As desert dwellers, the Mexican giant cardon cactus enjoys hot temperatures. They prefer temperatures above 50 degrees Fahrenheit and can withstand triple digits in the summer, so don't be concerned if your cactus becomes overheated. The Mexican giant cactus, on the other hand, cannot handle frost, cold, or freezing temperatures, so make sure it doesn't get below 25 degrees Fahrenheit in its environment.
If grown outdoors, these cacti grow best in USDA zone 9 - 11. In cooler zones, it can be kept outdoors during the summer and brought in as the temperature drops.
Traditional & Medicinal Uses of Pachycereus Pringlei
Pachycereus Pringlei was once harvested as a food source, with a molasses flavor and medicinal benefits. The seeds of cordon cactus are edible and highly nutritious, and Plants have been used in traditional medicine. The stems contained alkaloids and were known to be psychoactive in Mexico.
Please consult with a healthcare expert before consuming this plant as the proper dosage is unknown.
Cardon Cactus Propagation
Pachycereus pringlei can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and kept in a warm, sunny location to germinate successfully. Additionally, cuttings can be taken from healthy, mature plants and allowed to callous before planting in a similar soil mix.
Key Takeaways
- The Cardón Cactus is one of the largest cacti in the world, reaching heights of up to 60 feet
- Native to Baja California, Mexico, it thrives in arid environments with minimal water.
- Its columnar shape and sturdy stem allow it to support heavy branches and produce vibrant white flowers.
- The cactus has adapted to harsh conditions, storing water in its thick, waxy stem for survival. The Cardón Cactus plays a vital ecological role, providing habitat and food for various desert animals.
- With proper care, the Cardón Cactus makes a striking and low-maintenance addition to desert gardens and landscapes.
- Don't miss out on this opportunity to add something truly exceptional to your garden. Order your very own Pachycereus pringlei – Mexican giant cactus, today!
Bloom Season
Flower Color
Growth Rate
Hardiness Zone
Mature Size
Plant Type
Resistance
Sun Exposure
Watering Needs
Bloom Season | Spring, summer |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Pachycereus pringlei |
Common Name | Mexican Giant Cardon, Elephant Cactus, False Saguaro |
Dormancy | Winter |
Family | Cactaceae |
Flower Color | Whit, pinkish |
Genus | Pachycereus |
Growth Habit | Columnar cactus |
Growth Rate | Slow |
Hardiness Zone | 9, 10, 11 |
Mature Size | 60 ft. tall, 3 ft. wide |
Native Area | Sonora desert, Mexico |
Plant Type | Perennial cacti, Tree |
Propagation | By seeds, cuttings |
Resistance | Safe for humans, safe for pets |
Resistance | Extremely drought-tolerant, pests resistance |
Soil PH | 6.5, Acidic, Neutral |
Soil Type | specialized cactus potting soil |
Special Features | One of the largest cacti, easy to grow |
Sun Exposure | Full sun, partial shade |
Toxicity | Safe for humans, safe for pets |
Watering Needs | Low |
- Description
- Key Plant Features
The Cardon cactus, known as 'Pachycereus pringlei', is the tallest cactus known to man, with a remarkable 60 feet height and the trunk can be up to 3 feet thick. This thick and large columnar cactus is native to Mexico. It can live for over 300 years.
It has several other common names such as Mexican giant cactus, Elephant cactus, or False Saguaro. This slow-growing cactus is well-known for its resilience in arid environments and its long lifespan, making it a popular choice for xeriscaping and desert-themed gardens.
With its columnar shape with a single trunk is sure to turn heads and add drama to any space.
As it ages, the cactus develops numerous arms or branches, which give it a tree-like appearance.
Its thick, water-storing tissues enable it to survive prolonged droughts.
Despite its slow growth, the Cardon can eventually dominate any landscape with its stately presence. Its ability to thrive in arid conditions makes it a resilient and iconic plant in desert environments.
When it comes to flowering, its white bell-shaped flowers bloom only for one day in the late afternoon and remain open until noon the next day. Each flower lasts for only a short period but is quickly replaced by new blooms, giving the cactus an ethereal beauty during its flowering season. The flowers eventually give way to small, fleshy fruits that are edible and consumed by native wildlife.
But don't be intimidated by its bold appearance - this Mexican giant cactus plant is easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of environments.
When and How to Water Your Cardon Cactus
Desert plants like the mexican giant cardon cacti are adapted to survive in harsh hot environments, storing water in their stems and trunks for months at a time. During summer, you should water them every 2-3 weeks or when the soil is dry. In winter, you may not need to water them at all.
Cactus, on the other hand, can go months without water and not die. However, if there is a severe drought or you forget to water them for over a month during the summer then it can lead to discoloration and a shriveling look as it consumes more of the water in its interior. When you water them, take care not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot and fungal infections.
Light Requirements - Where to Place Your Cardon Cactus
Providing enough light for these desert cacti is one of the most important aspects of their care.
If indoors, place your cactus directly in front of a west- or south-facing window. If they don't receive enough light, their stems may grow leggy and become paler, and their spines will shorten, so make your cactus happy and give it plenty of light.
When growing outdoors, it is important to grow the cardon cactus plant in areas that receive at least 4-6 hours of bright, direct light every day to keep them happy.
Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs
These false saguaro cardon plants favor very airy, sandy soil that drains well. Planting them in ordinary soil will result in compacted roots, stunted growth, and, most likely, root rot. Instead, make or buy a well-draining potting mix, or ideally, use our specialized potting mix that contains over 10 natural substrates and mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your cactus to thrive.
When it comes to fertilizing, remember that less is more. A small amount of natural or organic fertilizer once a year in spring will do wonders for your plant's health and growth. Using organic fertilizers also ensures that other beneficial compounds and microbes are added to the soil without the use of harsh chemicals. Show your succulent some love with awesome natural fertilizer and watch it thrive.
Hardiness Zones & More
As desert dwellers, the Mexican giant cardon cactus enjoys hot temperatures. They prefer temperatures above 50 degrees Fahrenheit and can withstand triple digits in the summer, so don't be concerned if your cactus becomes overheated. The Mexican giant cactus, on the other hand, cannot handle frost, cold, or freezing temperatures, so make sure it doesn't get below 25 degrees Fahrenheit in its environment.
If grown outdoors, these cacti grow best in USDA zone 9 - 11. In cooler zones, it can be kept outdoors during the summer and brought in as the temperature drops.
Traditional & Medicinal Uses of Pachycereus Pringlei
Pachycereus Pringlei was once harvested as a food source, with a molasses flavor and medicinal benefits. The seeds of cordon cactus are edible and highly nutritious, and Plants have been used in traditional medicine. The stems contained alkaloids and were known to be psychoactive in Mexico.
Please consult with a healthcare expert before consuming this plant as the proper dosage is unknown.
Cardon Cactus Propagation
Pachycereus pringlei can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and kept in a warm, sunny location to germinate successfully. Additionally, cuttings can be taken from healthy, mature plants and allowed to callous before planting in a similar soil mix.
Key Takeaways
- The Cardón Cactus is one of the largest cacti in the world, reaching heights of up to 60 feet
- Native to Baja California, Mexico, it thrives in arid environments with minimal water.
- Its columnar shape and sturdy stem allow it to support heavy branches and produce vibrant white flowers.
- The cactus has adapted to harsh conditions, storing water in its thick, waxy stem for survival. The Cardón Cactus plays a vital ecological role, providing habitat and food for various desert animals.
- With proper care, the Cardón Cactus makes a striking and low-maintenance addition to desert gardens and landscapes.
- Don't miss out on this opportunity to add something truly exceptional to your garden. Order your very own Pachycereus pringlei – Mexican giant cactus, today!
Bloom Season
Flower Color
Growth Rate
Hardiness Zone
Mature Size
Plant Type
Resistance
Sun Exposure
Watering Needs
Bloom Season | Spring, summer |
---|---|
Botanical Name | Pachycereus pringlei |
Common Name | Mexican Giant Cardon, Elephant Cactus, False Saguaro |
Dormancy | Winter |
Family | Cactaceae |
Flower Color | Whit, pinkish |
Genus | Pachycereus |
Growth Habit | Columnar cactus |
Growth Rate | Slow |
Hardiness Zone | 9, 10, 11 |
Mature Size | 60 ft. tall, 3 ft. wide |
Native Area | Sonora desert, Mexico |
Plant Type | Perennial cacti, Tree |
Propagation | By seeds, cuttings |
Resistance | Safe for humans, safe for pets |
Resistance | Extremely drought-tolerant, pests resistance |
Soil PH | 6.5, Acidic, Neutral |
Soil Type | specialized cactus potting soil |
Special Features | One of the largest cacti, easy to grow |
Sun Exposure | Full sun, partial shade |
Toxicity | Safe for humans, safe for pets |
Watering Needs | Low |