About
This slow-growing, upright cactus with columnar, branching, blue-green stems, ribbed and lined with areoles bearing tan-coloured spines and fine white hairs. In summer, funnel shaped white flowers, sometimes flushed with red at the tips, are produced at night, and are followed by fig-shaped fruits. Can reach up to 10m in its native range but much smaller in cultivation.
About the genus
Pilosocereus is a genus of vigorous and fast-growing cacti which often become large in size, with some varieties reaching over 4m. Some species are branched in form and night-flowering whilst other are more shrub or tree-like. Many have an attractive blue colour. Flowers are funnel-shaped with greenish or reddish outer segments.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeSand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1B
Plant details
Plant typeCactus Succulent
HabitColumnar upright, Spreading branched
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Houseplants, Patio and container plants
Native toBrazil
Care notes
CultivationGrow in a standard cactus mix with sharp drainage, in a bright sunny spot; could be placed outdoors in a sheltered spot in summer. Ensure a minimum temperature of 12°C year round. Water freely in late spring and summer, keep just moist at other times. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed, sown at 19-24°C in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to mealybugs, and to ants if planted outdoors
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free, though over-watering will cause rot