Snyder Preserve - Pachycereus pringlei
Photos 1 and 2 by Addie Leimroth
Family: Cactaceae
Compound: Pac pri
Geographic Origin: Baja and Coastal Sonora
Characteristics: One of the tallest known cacti in the world, with one individual recoded at a height of 19.2m (63ft), though they are typically reach 6-9.15m (20-30) feet at maturity. Extremely slow growing, this cactus can take decades to reach maturity. One large trunk often gnarled and woody, 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, instead featuring rows of white fluffy material growing from each areole. Flowering season begins in the spring. Yellow buds develop on mature arms, 2.5-5cm (1-2in) long, growing sporadically along the ribs. Flowers are white, and open only one night per year, but flowering season lasts several weeks as different cacti will bloom on different nights. Large, round, yellow, fluffy looking fruit develop after pollination, and when ripe, split open exposing red flesh full of small black seeds.
Natural History: Typically near the coast in sandy flats, bajadas and rocky slopes between 0-700m (0-2300ft). These cacti can form dense forests in some areas. The flowers are an important food source for pollinators and the large fruit provide food for countless species. Due to their large size and stability, they are favored by birds of prey such as Osprey for nesting sites.
Cultivation Notes: Can be grown from seed easily but will take many years to mature. Prefers full sun and well-draining soils. 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. Make sure to plan ahead when planting this species as it can grow to be great heights and be very wide.
For general cactus and succulent propagation information, click here
Ethnobotany: The fruits are a staple food for indigenous people throughout the plant’s range. Like many other cactus fruits, it can be eaten fresh, though this species is often ground into a pulp, or made into wine. 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 makes a good medium for constructing fences, corrals, walls, rafters, and beds.
Citations:
National Gardening Association.
Virginia Tech.
World of Succulents.
