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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.

Cactus Image

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

  1. The Cardón Cactus is one of the largest cacti in the world, reaching heights of up to 60 feet
  2. Native to Baja California, Mexico, it thrives in arid environments with minimal water.
  3. Its columnar shape and sturdy stem allow it to support heavy branches and produce vibrant white flowers.
  4. 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.
  5. With proper care, the Cardón Cactus makes a striking and low-maintenance addition to desert gardens and landscapes.
  6. 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 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

Pests & Common Problems of the Mexican Giant Cactus

The Mexican giant cactus is a low-maintenance outdoor plant with few challenges. Mealybugs and scale insects are the most common pests, and they can cause white patches or brown spots on the body, respectively.

Don't be worried if you find any of these pests on your Mexican giant cactus. They can be eliminated with ease.  

For mealybugs: To get rid of them, simply dab the insects with a cotton swab dipped in 70% isopropyl rubbing alcohol. Until they are gone, repeat this procedure every week.  

For scale insects: Using a pair of heavy gloves, you can remove scale insects from the plant. 

The most common problems are:  

Root rot: Overwatering or too much moisture in the soil may be the cause of rot. If the plant exhibits stem or root rot, you must cut off the affected areas and let the plant fully dry out before replanting.  

Leggy Growth: If you start noticing that your plant is growing leggy, simply move it to a bright area because this is a sign that there isn't enough light. 

Frequently Asked
Questions

  • How tall can a Mexican Giant Cardon Cactus grow? 

    Mexican giant cactus (Pachycereus pringlei) is the largest cactus species in the world. It can grow up to 60 feet tall and has a trunk diameter of up to 3 feet. The cactus has a columnar shape, with branches that grow out from the main trunk.  

  • How fast does a Mexican Giant Cardon Cactus grow?

    The Cardon cactus (Pachycereus pringlei) is a slow-growing plant, and its growth rate can be affected by various factors such as soil quality, water availability, and temperature. In ideal growing conditions, the cactus can grow up to 2 feet per year.  However, in less favorable conditions, its growth rate can be much slower. The cactus grows tall and straight, with branches that grow out from the main trunk. It can take many years for the cactus to reach its full height of up to 60 feet. 

  • How much water does a Mexican Giant Cardon Cactus need? 

    Mexican giant cactus is a drought-tolerant plant that can survive in arid regions with little rainfall. It prefers well-drained soil and avoids being overwatered. During the growing season (spring and summer), it is recommended to water the cactus deeply once every 2-3 weeks to ensure that the roots get enough moisture.  In the winter, when the cactus is dormant, it requires less water, and it is recommended to reduce watering frequency. Overwatering can cause root rot and other problems, so it is important to be careful not to water the cactus too much. 

  • Can Mexican Giant Cardon Cactus be grown indoors? 

    The Pachycereus pringlei (Mexican giant cardon cactus), can be grown indoors if you have a large enough space to accommodate its size. It can grow up to 60 feet tall in the wild, but it will not reach this height when grown indoors. However, it still requires a lot of space to grow and needs bright, direct sunlight to thrive.  If you're unable to provide it with enough sunlight, you can supplement its light with grow lights. Additionally, it's important to ensure that the soil is well-drained and that you don't overwater the plant, as it can be susceptible to root rot. For these reasons, Mexican giant cactus is best grown outdoors in a sunny, dry location in USDA zone 9-11.  

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Cardon Cactus 'Pachycereus pringlei'

sku: 976

28 reviews
Regular price$ 15.29
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Size
Height:
Diameter:
Height: 6"-8"
Diameter:
Height: 9"-11"
Diameter:
Height: 15"-18"
Diameter:
Height: 19"-24"
Diameter:
Height: 25" - 30"
Diameter:
Height: 31"-40"
Diameter:

Please note: All Landscape Ready plants that are in a 6-inch pot or larger WILL NOT come with a pot as it will be shipped bare root.

  • In stock, ready to ship
  • Inventory on the way

Please note: Our large plants are many years old, and as a result, they might have minor scaring but will arrive 100% healthy and looking great.

Please note: Our large plants are shipped bare root. They are also many years old, and as a result, they might have minor scaring but will arrive healthy and looking great.

sku:
Detailed description of this plant is below...

If you live in a cold climate and are expecting temperatures below 40 degrees within the next five days after placing your order, we highly recommend adding a heat pack to your order. If you do not order a heat pack, we do not send one with your order.

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**FREE HEAT PACK WITH ORDERS OVER $50 before taxes and shipping- BY REQUEST ONLY, PLEASE MAKE A NOTE ON YOUR ORDER.

To prevent plants from freezing while in transit, orders placed for areas with extreme severe freezing temperatures will be held for shipment until it is safe to ship.

FREE SHIPPING ON ALL ORDERS OVER $89 in the
Continental US.

Plants that are in 3.5" pots and smaller will be shipped in its pot to prevent any damage to the roots.

Any plant that is 6" and larger WILL NOT come with a pot as it will be shipped bare root.

Depending on the species and season, you will receive a very similar plant to the one in the picture. It may or may not be blooming at the time of your purchase.

We ship via USPS Priority Mail, If you don't get Free Shipping, then we calculate the shipping cost based on the weight and volume of your purchase.

Care instructions are included in every package you order. Please allow us up to 3 business days to process your order. Depending on your location, we will ship the plants on a certain day to avoid transit time during weekends or holidays. If you wish to receive your order on a specific date, or have special instructions, please add a note on your order. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact us at any time.

  • 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.

Cactus Image

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

  1. The Cardón Cactus is one of the largest cacti in the world, reaching heights of up to 60 feet
  2. Native to Baja California, Mexico, it thrives in arid environments with minimal water.
  3. Its columnar shape and sturdy stem allow it to support heavy branches and produce vibrant white flowers.
  4. 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.
  5. With proper care, the Cardón Cactus makes a striking and low-maintenance addition to desert gardens and landscapes.
  6. 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 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

Pests & Common Problems of the Mexican Giant Cactus

The Mexican giant cactus is a low-maintenance outdoor plant with few challenges. Mealybugs and scale insects are the most common pests, and they can cause white patches or brown spots on the body, respectively.

Don't be worried if you find any of these pests on your Mexican giant cactus. They can be eliminated with ease.  

For mealybugs: To get rid of them, simply dab the insects with a cotton swab dipped in 70% isopropyl rubbing alcohol. Until they are gone, repeat this procedure every week.  

For scale insects: Using a pair of heavy gloves, you can remove scale insects from the plant. 

The most common problems are:  

Root rot: Overwatering or too much moisture in the soil may be the cause of rot. If the plant exhibits stem or root rot, you must cut off the affected areas and let the plant fully dry out before replanting.  

Leggy Growth: If you start noticing that your plant is growing leggy, simply move it to a bright area because this is a sign that there isn't enough light. 

Frequently Asked
Questions

  • How tall can a Mexican Giant Cardon Cactus grow? 

    Mexican giant cactus (Pachycereus pringlei) is the largest cactus species in the world. It can grow up to 60 feet tall and has a trunk diameter of up to 3 feet. The cactus has a columnar shape, with branches that grow out from the main trunk.  

  • How fast does a Mexican Giant Cardon Cactus grow?

    The Cardon cactus (Pachycereus pringlei) is a slow-growing plant, and its growth rate can be affected by various factors such as soil quality, water availability, and temperature. In ideal growing conditions, the cactus can grow up to 2 feet per year.  However, in less favorable conditions, its growth rate can be much slower. The cactus grows tall and straight, with branches that grow out from the main trunk. It can take many years for the cactus to reach its full height of up to 60 feet. 

  • How much water does a Mexican Giant Cardon Cactus need? 

    Mexican giant cactus is a drought-tolerant plant that can survive in arid regions with little rainfall. It prefers well-drained soil and avoids being overwatered. During the growing season (spring and summer), it is recommended to water the cactus deeply once every 2-3 weeks to ensure that the roots get enough moisture.  In the winter, when the cactus is dormant, it requires less water, and it is recommended to reduce watering frequency. Overwatering can cause root rot and other problems, so it is important to be careful not to water the cactus too much. 

  • Can Mexican Giant Cardon Cactus be grown indoors? 

    The Pachycereus pringlei (Mexican giant cardon cactus), can be grown indoors if you have a large enough space to accommodate its size. It can grow up to 60 feet tall in the wild, but it will not reach this height when grown indoors. However, it still requires a lot of space to grow and needs bright, direct sunlight to thrive.  If you're unable to provide it with enough sunlight, you can supplement its light with grow lights. Additionally, it's important to ensure that the soil is well-drained and that you don't overwater the plant, as it can be susceptible to root rot. For these reasons, Mexican giant cactus is best grown outdoors in a sunny, dry location in USDA zone 9-11.  

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