Pachycereus PRINGLEI

Pachycereus PRINGLEI - Pringle's pachycereus, Elephant cactus.

Pachycereus is a genus of plants in the cactus family (Cactaceae), comprising, according to various estimates, from 9 to 12 species. All of them grow in Mexico, as well as in the southern United States, mostly in the states of Arizona and California.

These are tall cacti with a thick, vertically erect stem. It can branch near the base. It has a dark green coloration. In height, Pachycereus plants grow up to 15-20 meters (49-66 ft), with an average stem diameter of 15-20 cm (6-8 in). In old plants, the lower part of the stem becomes woody, turning brownish.

Most species have stout straight spines, but some representatives lack them completely. The flowers are large, reaching up to 10 cm (4 in) in length. They usually have a pink or white color. They appear closer to the top of the plant and open at night.

Pachycereus pringlei is one of the largest members of the genus. In nature, it can reach 20 meters (66 ft) in height and up to 60 cm (24 in) in trunk diameter. In cultivation, young plants are usually kept. The stems have a bluish-green color. Multiple branches emerge from the main stem, directed vertically upward. It has spines gathered in clusters of 10-13 needles originating from a single base.

To improve germination, the seed coat is pre-scarified slightly with a file, or the seeds are soaked for several hours in a weak solution of potassium permanganate, then sown with shallow depth into a loose substrate. The sowing is moistened with a spray bottle, covered with film, and germinated in light, but not in direct sun, at a temperature of 16-22 °C (61-72 °F). Seedlings require ventilation. Waterlogging and drying out of the sowings must be avoided. Transplanting to a permanent location can be carried out immediately after the emergence of sprouts.

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In nature, Pachycereus can grow even on bare rocks. In cultivation, it is best grown in a special light mix for cacti and succulents. It can be made independently by mixing vermiculite, peat moss, and sandy soil in a 3:1:1 ratio. The use of drainage is mandatory.

Like a typical cactus, Pachycereus is drought-tolerant and cannot tolerate overwatering. The plant should be watered only when the soil has completely dried out. Care must be taken so that water does not fall on the stem, otherwise rotting may begin.

Air humidity should be low, and the location where it stands must be well-ventilated. In the warm season, the cactus can be fed once a month with a small amount of phosphorus-potassium fertilizer.

The plant requires plenty of sunlight. It will feel good outdoors: in the garden or on a balcony, but only in the warm season. The optimal temperature for the cactus is from 20 to 35 °C (68 to 95 °F). If it drops below 10 °C (50 °F), the plant ceases growth and enters dormancy.