Accession Count: 8
Common Name:
cardon
Family Name:
Cactaceae
Botanical Name:
Pachycereus pringlei
Sub Species:
Variety:
Forma:
Cultivar:
Characteristics:
Pachycereus pringlei is the tallest known cactus in the world, with one specimen reaching a height of 63 feet, though they typically reach 20-30 feet at maturity. Extremely slow growing, this cactus can take decades to reach maturity. Cactus features one large trunk, often with several other branches that begin near the base and are often as wide as the trunk itself. Each arm has 11-17 ribs. Immature plants and newly grown arms feature spines in symmetrically placed clusters on areoles, but these spines are not replaced and mature arms often lack them entirely. In March, flowering season begins. Mature arms will feature yellow buds, 1-2 inches long, growing sporadically along the ribs. Buds bloom into white flowers for only one night per year, but flowering season lasts several weeks as different cacti will bloom on different nights. The flowers are eaten by bats, and the bats transfer the pollen. Following flowers, edible red fruits 2 inches wide form on the top of mature arms.
Compound:
Pac pri
Geographic Origin:
Sonoran Desert
Ecozone Origin:
Nearctic
Biome Origin:
Natural History:
This large cactus provides a home for birds, including the hawk. It is typically pollinated by birds and insects.
Cultivation Notes:
Pachycereus pringlei is a desert native, and should always be planted in full sun. Soil should be well drained. For immature plants, water only occasionally in the fall, winter, and early spring; in the hotter months, water regularly, but do not let the soil remain consistently wet. Mature plants do not need to be watered. Propagate from seeds or cuttings.
Ethnobotany:
The cactus has been used by natives of northwestern Mexico in a variety of ways. The fruits are a staple of native diets. Like many other cactus fruits, it can be eaten fresh. Sometimes, it is ground up in a pulp or as a juice drink. Medicinally, the flesh of the cactus was used as a type of bandage over wounds because of its painkilling, disinfecting, and healing properties. The woody ribs of the cactus were used as firewood or were fashioned into fishing spears and hooking poles to retrieve out-of-reach fruits. The wood is notably rot resistant and thus makes a good medium for constructing fences, corrals, walls, rafters, and even beds.
Height:
20 - 50 feet
Width:
6 - 10 feet
Growth Rate:
Slow Growing
Grow Season:
Summer
Flower Season:
Spring
Color:
White
Function:
Accent
Spread:
Spreading
Allergen:
Non-allergenic
Invasive:
Benign
Toxicity:
Benign
Hardy:
Water Use:
Low water Use
