Marginatocereus marginatus (DC.) Backeb.

Mexican fencepost

Mexican fence post cactus is native to Mexico. These tall columnar cacti often serve as fenceposts.

Plants: These cacti reach 5–10′ (1.5–3 m) in height, and up to a maximum of 20′ (6.1 m). They grow in clusters, branched at the base, but unbranched above. The straight columns are 3–4″ (7.6–10 cm) around, with 5-7 ribs.

Flowers: Pink or greenish-white flowers 1¼–1½″ (3.2–4.2 cm) around grow along the edges of the ribs.

Fruits: Flowers become spiny, yellowish to dark red fruits ¼″ (8.4 mm) in diameter.

Habitats: ?

Edibility: The small red fruits are edible, and very sweet.

Online References:

Marginatocereus marginatus description by Thomas H. Kent, not updated.

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