Cacti are usually not known for their height, but did you know they can grow up to 20 feet tall in the wild? If you’re looking for some stunning tall cactus plants to add to your garden, you’re in luck! Plantly has compiled a list of nine varieties that are definitely worth checking out.
Tall Cactus Plant Ideas
Golden barrel cactus
The Golden barrel cactus is one of the most popular cactus varieties in the world. It can grow up to 3 feet tall and is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. With its distinctive round shape, spines ranging from yellow to brown, and stunning yellow or orange flowers that bloom in springtime, this cactus is a great addition to any desert landscape.
Saguaro cactus
The Saguaro cactus is an iconic plant of the American Southwest. These slow-growing giants can reach over 40 feet in height and live for hundreds of years. Apart from their impressive size, Saguaro cacti are known for their colorful flowers, which come in white, pink, and red. They are an essential part of the desert ecosystem, providing shelter, food, and shade to various animals.
Organ pipe cactus
The organ pipe cactus is a tall, slender cactus native to desert regions of Mexico and the southwestern United States. It gets its name from its distinctive shape resembling a row of pipe organs. With heights of up to 26 feet, long white spines contrasting against its green body, and its ability to tolerate extended periods of drought, the organ pipe cactus is an excellent choice for those seeking an exotic addition to their garden.
Mexican fence post cactus
The Mexican fence post cactus is a tall, spiny plant found in the deserts of Mexico and the southwestern United States. Standing up to 20 feet tall, these cacti are often used for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscaping. However, they are also a popular food source for predators like deer, rabbits, and rodents.
Blue myrtle cactus
The blue myrtle cactus is a member of the cactus family known for its impressive height, reaching over 15 feet tall. Native to Mexico, this cactus stands out with its vibrant blue color and striking white flowers that bloom in spring. Adding a blue myrtle cactus to your home or garden is sure to bring beauty and interest to the space.
Candelabra cactus
The Candelabra cactus, also known as Jasminocereus thouarsii, hails from the Horn of Africa and parts of eastern Africa. It can grow up to 15 feet tall and features numerous branches resembling a candelabra. This unique cactus produces flowers on these branches. It serves various purposes, from medicinal uses to being cultivated as an ornamental plant. Keep an eye out for these striking plants in their natural habitat.
Totem pole cactus
The Totem Pole Cactus, found in the Sonoran Desert of Arizona and Mexico, lives up to its name with its long, thin trunk resembling a totem pole. Growing up to 12 feet high, it boasts large spines that protect it from predators and aid in moisture retention. This cactus blooms at night, attracting bees and hummingbirds, and produces small fruits enjoyed by birds and other animals.
Mexican giant cardon cactus
The Mexican giant cardon cactus is one of the tallest cactus plants in the world, reaching heights of up to 20 meters. Native to the Sonoran Desert, it thrives in various habitats like desert scrubland, grassland, and rocky slopes. This cactus features a single trunk with a rosette of large, spiny leaves and blooms white or pale pink flowers from April to June. Its fruit is edible and has a delicious melon-like flavor, making it an important food source for both humans and animals.
Eve’s needle cactus
Eve’s needle cactus is a large cactus plant that can grow up to 13 feet tall. Native to the Peruvian Andes, Ecuador, Argentina, and Bolivia, it was traditionally used as a living fence. Despite its fearsome appearance with spikes up to 3 inches long, this slow-growing cactus is quite gentle. With its unique form, vibrant orange flowers, and easy-care nature, Eve’s needle cactus is a perfect choice for any landscape.
Columnar cactus
Columnar cacti are tall cactus plants that grow in a column shape, native to desert regions of the Americas. With their slender structure, they are well-equipped to survive in hot, dry climates. Some varieties even sport colorful flowers in the springtime. Whether you choose a small variety or a towering giant reaching 20 feet in height, these unique plants are sure to add interest to any landscape or make a great addition to your indoor collection.
Summary
Tall cactus plants are a fantastic addition to any garden. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, providing interest and beauty to your landscape. With their long lifespan and low maintenance requirements, you can enjoy these magnificent plants for many years. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to add one of these nine stunning cactus varieties to your garden!
