Marginatocereus marginatus f. cristata

Marginatocereus marginatus f. cristata

You will receive the exact specimen the shown here. 
Measures 8” tall x 5” wide.  
Roots as shown.
Showcased here in one-of-a-kind handmade pottery (sold separately).
Will be shipped bare root. 

Marginatocereus marginatus f. cristata (also known by the synonyms Pachycereus marginatus f. cristata or Stenocereus marginatus forma cristata) is a rare, slow-growing crested form of the Mexican fence post cactus. This unique mutation causes the plant's stem to grow in a wavy, fan-shaped or convoluted pattern, rather than a single vertical column, creating a distinctive, architectural appearance highly sought after by collectors.

DESCRIPTION and CHARACTERISTICS:

• Appearance: The cactus features dark green stems with distinct, regular ribs bordered by white areoles (small dots where spines emerge) that form a continuous line along the edges. Short, light-colored spines are more prominent on younger specimens.
• Growth: It is a slow-growing plant that can eventually become large, with the standard non-crested species reaching significant heights in the wild. The crested form's growth is often unpredictable, producing loops and spirals that make each specimen unique.
• Flowers: While less common in the crested form, the plant can produce white or pinkish flowers that typically bloom at night during the spring.
• Origin: The parent species is native to arid and semi-arid regions of central Mexico, where it is often used for live property barriers. The crested form is primarily a nursery cultivar and rarely found naturally in the wild.

CULTIVATION and CARE:

• Light: Prefers full sun exposure to partial shade for optimal growth and potential flowering.
• Watering: Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry, which is typically every 2-3 weeks in the warmer growing season. It is dormant in the winter and requires minimal to no water during cold periods to prevent root rot.
• Soil: Requires a well-draining cactus or succulent mix, ideally with added perlite, pumice, or small gravel for excellent drainage.
• Temperature: It thrives in warm temperatures, ideally between 70°F and 85°F (21°C to 29°C). It is not frost-tolerant and must be protected from freezing temperatures, though it can tolerate exposure as low as -4°C for a short time if kept dry.
• Propagation: Can be propagated by stem cuttings or from seed. Normal, non-crested shoots should be removed to encourage the crested growth.