Scientific Name
Browningia candelaris (Meyen) Britton & Rose
Common Name(s)
Candleholder Cactus
Synonym(s)
Cactus candelaris
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Browningieae
Genus: Browningia
Etymology
The specific epithet "candelaris" (pronounced "kan-del-AIR-is") means "candelabra-like." It refers to the growth habit of this species, which has a columnar trunk topped with branches, resembling a candelabra.
Origin
Browningia candelaris is native to northern Chile and southern Peru. It grows in arid areas high in the mountains on the western side of the Andes at elevations ranging from 5,250 to 9,200 feet (1,600 to 2,800 m).
Description
Browningia candelaris is a tree-like cactus with a distinct, spiny trunk and a crown of thinner, branching stems that may either be entirely spineless or with spines reduced to a few bristles. Initially, this cactus grows as a single column densely covered with spines, but as it matures, it branches out, and the spiny trunk becomes smooth. It can grow up to 23 feet (7 m) tall, with branching typically occurring at a height between 6.6 and 10 feet (2 and 3 m). The trunk can reach a diameter of 20 inches (50 cm), while the branches can measure up to 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter. The trunk has 19 to 29 ribs, while the branches have more than 30 ribs. The straight spines on the trunk are yellowish-red, mostly aging to gray or black, and can grow as long as 8.8 inches (22 cm). Each areole on the trunk bears 20 to 50 spines.
In summer, Browningia candelaris produces white, tubular flowers that can reach a length of 7 inches (12.5 cm). The flowers appear only on the branches, not on the trunk. The edible fruits turn yellow when ripe and can grow up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) long.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30°F (-1.1°C) to 45°F (7.2°C).
How to Grow and Care
Like most cacti, Cereus are fairly low-maintenance and hardy. Ensure they receive enough water without becoming waterlogged, especially during the summer, and fertilize them for the best results. If the roots have become black or overly soft, the cactus could be experiencing root rot – cut away the affected parts and replant. Like all cacti, give them lots of direct sunlight, especially during the summer. Well-drained soil is best, and most Cereus cacti perform well in soil that contains some organic material. Some recommend avoiding soil that contains sphagnum moss, though – it can make the cactus vulnerable to root rot.
It may become necessary to repot your Cereus if it outgrows its container. If so, ensure the soil is dry and remove the pot.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Cereus.
Links
- Back to genus Browningia
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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