Argentine Giant

Plant Type: Cacti
Plant Height: 1-2 feet
Spread: 3-5 feet
Flower Color: white
Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Partial Shade

Argentine Giant Cactus (Echinopsis candicans) – Stunning Blooms for Phoenix Gardens

The Argentine Giant Cactus, scientifically known as Echinopsis candicans, is a remarkable and low-maintenance cactus native to the grasslands of Argentina. This cactus is best known for its gigantic, fragrant white flowers, making it a showstopper in any desert landscape or xeriscape garden in the Phoenix Valley.

Impressive Spreading Growth

The Argentine Giant typically grows to about 1 to 2 feet in height but can spread 3 to 5 feet wide, forming a low, sprawling mound of thick, fleshy stems. These blue-green stems are ribbed and sparsely covered with spines, giving the plant an elegant yet robust appearance.

Spectacular Giant Blooms

What truly sets the Argentine Giant Cactus apart is its enormous trumpet-shaped flowers, which can reach up to 8 inches in diameter. These blooms are usually white with hints of pink or green and are highly fragrant, especially in the evening. The flowers typically appear in late spring to early summer, creating a breathtaking display that’s especially mesmerizing at night. Although the blooms are short-lived—opening in the evening and closing by midday—they are a must-have feature in any garden.

Perfect for Xeriscaping in Phoenix

This cactus thrives in full sun to partial shade, making it ideal for the hot, sunny climate of the Phoenix Valley. It prefers well-draining soil and requires minimal watering, making it a perfect choice for xeriscaping and drought-tolerant gardens. The Argentine Giant is also frost-tolerant, but it’s advisable to provide protection during prolonged freezing conditions.

Landscape Use and Ornamental Appeal

The Argentine Giant is a favorite among cactus enthusiasts and is perfect for use in rock gardens, cactus gardens, or as a stunning container plant. Its low, spreading habit and spectacular flowers make it a fantastic choice for adding drama and visual appeal to desert-themed landscapes. The fragrant blooms attract pollinators, making it a valuable addition to wildlife-friendly gardens.

Key Benefits:

• Gigantic, fragrant blooms up to 8 inches across.
• Perfect for xeriscaping in the Phoenix Valley, requiring minimal watering.
• Thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, ideal for desert landscaping.
• Low-maintenance, making it a favorite among both novice and experienced gardeners.
• Cold-tolerant and adaptable to varying desert climates, making it a resilient addition to Phoenix gardens.

Care and Maintenance

The Argentine Giant is easy to care for, requiring only occasional watering, especially during the hot summer months. Ensure it is planted in well-draining soil, and while it is frost-tolerant, it’s best to provide some protection during extended cold snaps. With minimal care, this cactus will reward you with stunning blooms and a bold architectural presence.

Add the Argentine Giant to Your Phoenix Landscape

Bring a touch of exotic beauty and desert elegance to your garden with the Argentine Giant Cactus. Its massive, fragrant flowers, low-growing habit, and drought tolerance make it a standout plant for both desert landscapes and container gardening in the Phoenix Valley.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Argentine Giant

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth)
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil (preferably slightly acidic to neutral)
• Spacing: Space plants 3-5 feet apart to allow for their large mature size and optimal air circulation
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: The Argentine Giant cactus may require light staking or support when young but will become self-supporting as it matures

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 3-4 days for the first 2-3 weeks to encourage deep root growth and establishment
• Watering Amount: Provide 1-1.5 inches of water per session to ensure deep watering around the roots

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: The Argentine Giant is considered established after 2-3 months when the roots are well-integrated into the surrounding soil and the plant begins to show steady new growth

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 10-14 days during the hot months, increasing to every 7-10 days during extremely hot periods. Provide 1.5-2 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 3-4 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall. The Argentine Giant is drought-tolerant once established but still benefits from occasional watering during dry winter periods.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Position the drip emitters 12-18 inches away from the base of the plant to ensure water is delivered to the root zone. This will help encourage deep root growth while preventing excess moisture near the cactus stem, which could lead to rot.
• Flow Rate: Use low-flow emitters (1-2 gallons per hour) to provide a slow, steady flow of water, allowing deep penetration into the soil.
• Number of Emitters: Place 2-3 emitters around the base of the plant to cover the root zone evenly. You can adjust the number as the plant grows.
• Irrigation Zone: Set up a zone for your Argentine Giant along with other low-water usage plants in the landscape. This will allow you to adjust the watering schedule and duration to meet the specific needs of the cactus.
• Adjusting Frequency: During the peak summer months, you may need to water more frequently (every 7-10 days) to accommodate high temperatures. In the cooler months, reduce watering frequency to 2-3 weeks.

General Watering Tips:

• Soil Check: Check the soil moisture by digging a few inches into the ground. Water when the top 2-3 inches of soil feel dry to the touch.
• Avoid Overwatering: The Argentine Giant is drought-tolerant and prefers dry conditions. Ensure that the soil is well-drained, and avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
• Mulch: Apply a thin layer of mulch around the base to help retain moisture and keep the roots cool, but ensure mulch doesn’t touch the plant’s stem.