About
A tall, columnar cactus from Peru with stout, ribbed, greyish-green stems bearing prominent areoles with numerous golden-brown to white spines (winterianus, named after botanist Winter) and large, white, nocturnal flowers. A rarely cultivated specialist for a warm, dry, frost-free glasshouse or tropical garden.
About the genus
Wittsteinia 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, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectNorth-facing, East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden
Native toAustralia
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrows best in an acidic or neutral, moist but well-drained soil in a sheltered position
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or by semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free