Mexican Fencepost

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Mexican Fencepost, scientifically known as Pachycereus Marginatus, is a tall, columnar cactus that adds structure and elegance to any desert landscape. With its smooth, green stems reaching heights of up to 20 feet, this cactus is often used to create natural living fences or as a striking architectural feature in xeriscape gardens. The cactus is lined with symmetrical rows of short, white spines, giving it a clean and minimalistic look. In the warmer months, Mexican Fencepost produces small, white to pink flowers at the top of its stems, followed by red fruits. This cactus is perfect for Arizona gardens due to its low water needs and heat tolerance.

Type of Light: Full Sun
Mexican Fencepost thrives in full sun, making it ideal for the bright, intense sunlight in Arizona. Plant it in an area with direct sun exposure to ensure healthy growth and vibrant coloration.

Watering: Low Water Requirement
This cactus is highly drought-tolerant and requires very little water once established. Water every 3-4 weeks during the summer months, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. In the cooler months, reduce watering to once every 6 weeks or rely on natural rainfall.

Companion Planting:
Pair Mexican Fencepost with other desert plants like Agave Americana, Ocotillo, and Golden Barrel Cactus for a dramatic and structured landscape. You can also plant it with Red Yucca and Desert Marigold to introduce contrasting colors and textures, while also attracting pollinators like bees and hummingbirds. These combinations create a vibrant, low-maintenance xeriscape garden.