Pachycereus pringlei

Cardón

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Taxonomy

Common Names

CardónMexican giant cardonElephant cactus

Context

nativeRegion

Baja California, Sonora (northwestern Mexico).

usdaZones

9-11

companionPlants

Carnegiea gigantea, Ferocactus spp., Agave spp.

culturalUses

Traditionally used by indigenous peoples for food, water storage, and construction materials.

Care

LightFull sun; requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

WateringWater sparingly; allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Water more during summer, reduce in winter.

SoilWell-draining, sandy or cactus mix soil. Avoid soils that retain moisture.

FertilizerFeed with a diluted cactus fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.

HumidityPrefers low humidity and very dry air; avoid misting.

TemperatureThrives in warm temperatures (optimal: 21-35°C/70-95°F). Not frost-tolerant; keep above 4°C/40°F.

HabitColumnar cactus, tree-like with upright, branched stems.

Mature SizeTypically 10-15 meters (33-50 ft) tall in habitat, up to 19 meters (63 ft) in optimal conditions.

Growth RateVery slow-growing.

BloomingProduces large, white, nocturnal flowers in spring; pollinated by bats.

DormancyDormant in winter with minimal or no growth.

MethodsSeed, Stem cuttings

DifficultyModerate; seeds require patience, cuttings root slowly.

Best SeasonSpring to early summer.

PruningMinimal; remove dead or damaged branches as needed.

RepottingRepot young plants every 2-3 years or when rootbound; mature plants rarely require repotting.

Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to mealybugs, scale, root rot if overwatered.

ToxicityNot considered toxic to humans or pets.

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