Mexican Fence Post Cactus

The Mexican Fence Post cactus (Pachycereus marginatus) is a tall, elegant, columnar cactus native to central and northern Mexico, often used as a living fence or dramatic landscape element.

Appearance

• Growth form: Upright, slender columns that grow in tight clusters, creating a natural “fence” look.

• Height: Typically 10–20 feet tall in cultivation, but can reach 30 feet.

• Stems: Dark to medium green, usually with 5–7 smooth ribs, and lightly lined with small, evenly spaced areoles.

• Spines: Short, stubby, and not overly dangerous—making it safer to use near walkways than many other cacti.

Flowers & Fruit

• Flowers: Small, tubular, reddish-pink blooms that appear along the ribs, usually in spring to early summer.

• Pollination: Attracts bats, birds, and insects in its native range.

• Fruit: Edible, reddish fruit that follows flowering, with a mild, sweet flavor.

Growing Conditions

• Light: Full sun is best; tolerates some light shade.

• Soil: Needs excellent drainage; thrives in sandy or rocky soil.

• Watering: Low water requirements—deeply but infrequently during the warm season, almost none in winter.

• Cold tolerance: Hardy to about 25°F when dry.

Notable Uses

• Popular in desert and modern landscapes as a living fence or striking vertical accent.

• Works well with agaves, ocotillos, and other drought-tolerant plants.

• Low-maintenance and long-lived once established.