Mexican Fence Post Cactus (Lophocereus marginatus)
Mexican Fence Post Cactus (Lophocereus marginatus)
Mexican Fence Post Cactus (Lophocereus marginatus) is a tall, columnar cactus prized for its clean, upright form and minimal branching. Its smooth green stems are distinctly ribbed and lined with small, regularly spaced areoles bearing short, harmless spines. Also known as Organ Pipe or Pachycereus marginatus in older classifications, it is native to central and southern Mexico, where it grows in arid and semi-arid regions.
The plant is often used as a living fence or natural barrier, planted in rows where its straight, architectural stems form dense, vertical walls. Its slow, stately growth and symmetrical form make it popular in modern desert landscaping. Small, funnel-shaped flowers may appear near the top of mature stems, followed by edible fruits. The cactus plays a role in erosion control and wildlife support, offering nectar to pollinators and habitat to birds. Its striking shape and cultural utility give it both ecological and ornamental significance.
Mexican Fence Post Cactus has a typical overall height between 6’-15’ (1.83-4.57 m) and spread diameter of 3”-4” (8-10 cm).
Mexican Fence Post Cactus (Lophocereus marginatus) is a tall, columnar cactus prized for its clean, upright form and minimal branching. Its smooth green stems are distinctly ribbed and lined with small, regularly spaced areoles bearing short, harmless spines. Also known as Organ Pipe or Pachycereus marginatus in older classifications, it is native to central and southern Mexico, where it grows in arid and semi-arid regions.
The plant is often used as a living fence or natural barrier, planted in rows where its straight, architectural stems form dense, vertical walls. Its slow, stately growth and symmetrical form make it popular in modern desert landscaping. Small, funnel-shaped flowers may appear near the top of mature stems, followed by edible fruits. The cactus plays a role in erosion control and wildlife support, offering nectar to pollinators and habitat to birds. Its striking shape and cultural utility give it both ecological and ornamental significance.
Mexican Fence Post Cactus has a typical overall height between 6’-15’ (1.83-4.57 m) and spread diameter of 3”-4” (8-10 cm).