Overview

Austrocylindropuntia subulata is a plant with a shrubby, erect habit in the genus Austrocylindropuntia, part of the Cactaceae family, with green, cylindrical stems foliage. Austrocylindropuntia subulata grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include ornamental and drought-tolerant planting. It is native to Bolivia and Peru.

About

Austrocylindropuntia subulata, commonly known as Eve's needle cactus, is a shrubby, erect cactus native to Bolivia and Peru. It features green, cylindrical stems and thrives in full sun on south-facing, sheltered aspects. This cultivar prefers fertile, well-drained loam soil with a neutral pH and dry conditions, making it suitable for drought-tolerant planting. Hardy to UK zone H4, it is best cultivated in spring and summer and can be propagated by stem cuttings or seeds.

About the genus

Austrocylindropuntia is a genus of cacti with eight recognized species as of December 2025, which were once included in the genus Opuntia. All are native to South America, although some have been introduced elsewhere.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Austrocylindropuntia

Sunlight

Full sun

Soil type

Loam

Soil pH

Neutral

Soil moisture

Dry

Aspect

South-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H4

Plant details

Austrocylindropuntia subulata size, habit and characteristics

Habit

Shrubby, Erect

Foliage

Green, Cylindrical stems

Suggested uses

Ornamental, Drought-tolerant planting

Native to

Bolivia, Peru

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Austrocylindropuntia subulata

Propagation

Stem cuttings, Seeds

Pest resistance

High

Disease resistance

High

Frequently asked questions