Cardón
pachycereus pringlei
Also known as: ["Mexican Giant Cactus","Elephant Cactus"]
Overview
A towering columnar cactus native to Mexico, known for its impressive height and longevity.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Pachycereus |
| Botanical Name: | Pachycereus pringlei |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in arid or semi-arid regions, or indoor pot in very bright, sunny location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 years or when dead growth is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on selective removal rather than heavy cutting.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer sun with partial shade midday.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from scorching midday sun; place in brightest possible location indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even light; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sun; avoid shaded corners.
Watering
every 7–14 days during growing season, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky cactus mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use gritty mix; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C) preferred; tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but not prolonged cold.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain stable warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with balanced cactus fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a cactus-specific formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets; cuttings root easily in warm conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Let cut end dry for a few days.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep lightly moist.
- Provide warmth and indirect light.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), bright indirect light, and high humidity (e.g., propagation dome).
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot within 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Allow cut end to callous before planting; avoid overwatering; maintain warmth and humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems cleanly at a node or junction; allow cut ends to dry before handling.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove dead or damaged stems to maintain shape and health.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or a sharp knife.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged stems; allow cuts to dry; avoid excessive pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches (5–7 cm) in diameter.
Method
Remove gently; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining cactus mix; avoid watering for a week.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound or soil is depleted; typically every 3–5 years.
Checklist
Check root boundness; prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; avoid immediate watering.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water exits the pot; water early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply during active growing season (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry completely between waterings; reduce frequency to monthly or less in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to standard potting mix; ensure large drainage holes in pot.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, stunted growth, or softening of tissues in cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, weakens roots, and can cause rot if soil remains wet in cold conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; provide frost protection if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Can lead to dehydration, sunburn, or heat stress if not provided adequate water and shade.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during growing season (spring-summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicPachycereus pringlei poses minimal toxicity risk to cats. Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation due to spines or sap, but no specific toxic compounds are known to affect cats.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicWhile Pachycereus pringlei is not highly toxic to dogs, ingestion can cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to mechanical irritation from spines or sap. No specific toxic compounds are known to affect dogs significantly.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Non-toxicPachycereus pringlei, commonly known as the Cardón cactus, is generally non-toxic to humans. However, its spines can cause mechanical injury, and contact with the sap may lead to mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals. There are no known toxic compounds that pose significant health risks upon ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched or ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall can Pachycereus pringlei grow?
A: It can reach heights of up to 63 feet (19 meters), making it one of the tallest cacti in the world.
Q: Is the Cardón cactus suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: Due to its massive size, it is not typically suitable for indoor cultivation and is best suited for outdoor landscapes.
Q: Does the Cardón cactus produce flowers?
A: Yes, it produces large, white, night-blooming flowers that are pollinated by bats and moths.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–14 days during growi |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
