About
A large, tree-like cactus, up to 15m high in its native range, though often smaller in cultivation. Mature plants produce nocturnal flowers, with short, pale green to white petals in summer, followed by oval-shaped red fruits. Plants have upright, branching, blue-green stems, each with 5-8 triangular ribs, and areoles bearing yellowish white spines.
About the genus
Stenocereus includes herbaceous and sometimes woody species grown for their ornamental merit. The genus is represented in gardens by selected species and cultivars suited to a range of growing conditions
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeCactus Succulent
HabitColumnar upright, Spreading branched
FoliageEvergreen
HeightHigher than 12 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Houseplants, Patio and container plants
Native toMexico
Care notes
CultivationGrow under glass, or in patio containers and overwinter in a greenhouse. Plant in a sharply-draining cactus mix and position in full sun. Water moderately when in growth, keep dry over winter. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for more advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed, sown at 21ºC in spring, or by stem cuttings in summer
Pest resistanceMaybe susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and to aphids while flowering
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free