Pachycereus Pringlei (False Saguaro)

Pachycereus pringlei
Common Name: False Saguaro

Pachycereus pringlei, known as the False Saguaro, is the largest cactus species in the world—native to northwestern Mexico’s Baja California and Sonora deserts. Often mistaken for the iconic Carnegiea gigantea (true Saguaro), this giant cactus grows faster, branches more freely from the base, and can reach towering heights of over 60 feet in its natural habitat.

Young specimens are slow but steady growers, forming thick, upright columns with bluish-green skin and well-defined ribs lined with clusters of golden spines. In cultivation, P. pringlei stays manageable for years and makes an excellent vertical accent for desert-style gardens or large pots.

☀ Light Requirements
Thrives in full sun. Outdoors, it loves dry heat and strong light. Indoors, place in your brightest window or under grow lights to prevent stretching.

💧 Watering Needs
Water deeply only when soil is completely dry. Very drought-tolerant. In winter or cooler months, reduce watering significantly.

🌡 Temperature Tolerance
Hardy to around 25–30°F in dry conditions. Protect from frost and excessive moisture in cold weather. For winter orders, consider adding a [Heat Pack].

✨ Special Features
• Tall Columnar Growth – Grows upright with strong central trunks and eventual branching
• Saguaro Lookalike – Often confused with Carnegiea, but grows faster and hardier
• Desert Landmark – A true specimen cactus for xeriscaping or collectors with space to grow

Other Common Names:
Cardón, Mexican Giant Cactus, False Saguaro

This cactus will ship bare root and will be ready to place directly in a well draining soil mix like our Custom Cactus Mix.

Photos in the listings unless otherwise specified are representative of the plant that will be sent to you.
However, Plants grow differently and each plant may vary slightly in shape, size, growth pattern, etc.
Of course, if you receive a plant that you are dissatisfied with please reach out to us. We want to make it right!

If temperatures near you are below 45℉ we highly recommend adding a Heat Pack to your order.
If temperatures where you live will be much lower than 20℉ even heat packs may not work. You may consider waiting until things warm up a bit. We know you love your plants just like we do and we wouldn't want any of them to freeze.