why would you buy that? why would they sell that?

Sorry... but even if you get it growing strong again, won't it just fall over?

They side growth may be old flowers dried up.

This post was edited by noki on Fri, Jun 21, 13 at 23:09

"Why does it look like its half dead??"

Sorry, but when I saw the pic, that's EXACTLY what ran through my mind, maybe cause it IS half dead. I don't grow these, but this does look rather dying, I'd change my mind & return it for a refund. Personally, I think the Seller should be ashamed of themselves to sell this.

In order to take a crack at identifying your plant, I'd like another closer/clear pic of the upper part of the cactus, if you could please? One from the side & one from the top would be great!

The common name Mexican Rose does not bring to mind any particular cactus.

First, I'll say that you can tell it had better growing conditions over time (wider growth vs. skinnier growth at the base).

It looks like corking on your cactus. Corking is a normal/essential part of its growth (this is especially true for taller cacti). Corking is the gradual ripening (aging) of the stem from the base (then up the stem) to produce a bark-like texture (brown/brittle) so that it will hold up/support the rest of the cactus. It is a normal, healthy and necessary part of your plant's life cycle. So, it has been working HARD at holding itself up! =)

I have some cactus & some Euphorbia that have corking. It's not a pretty sight to me. But I just chalk it up to age...like my wrinkles! LOL

If you like the look/shape of your cactus, it could probably continuing growing/living as is. You may want to cut off the upper portion & reroot it. I don't know how that's done (exactly), but you could probably Google it or search here for instructions, if you are so inclined.

Now, without seeing a close-up pic, I'll guess the side growths may be aerial roots (looking for water during its less-than-optimum care). Again, a closer pic would be helpful :)