Scientific Name
Cereus hildmannianus subsp. uruguayanus (R.Kiesling) N.P.Taylor
Common Name(s)
Andes Organ Pipe, Hedge Cactus, Peruvian Apple, Spiny Hedge Cactus, Spiny Tree Cactus, Queen of the Night
Synonym(s)
Cereus uruguayanus, Piptanthocereus bageanus, Piptanthocereus uruguayanus
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Cereeae
Genus: Cereus
Description
Cereus hildmannianus subsp. uruguayanus is a slow-growing columnar cactus with segmented, cylindrical, blue-green to dull green stems with usually 5 to 6 ribs lined with clusters of golden-yellow to brown spines. It grows up to 33 feet (10 m) tall, branching from the base. Stems can reach 6 inches (15 cm) in diameter.
The showy white flowers appear in spring and summer and open at night. They are up to 6 inches (15 cm) in diameter. Fruits are red, pear-shaped with white pulp and crunchy black seeds.
Origin
Cereus hildmannianus subsp. uruguayanus is native to Uruguay.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Like most cacti, Cereus are somewhat 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 them. Most gardeners interested in cacti should be able to cultivate these without much problem.
It may become necessary to repot your Cereus if it outgrows its container. If so, ensure the soil is dry and then remove the pot. Knock away old soil and prune out any rotted or dead roots, then replace it in a new pot and backfill it with fresh soil. Ensure not to overwater cacti planted in new pots, which can lead to root rot. It should be left dry for about a week and then watered lightly.
These cacti propagate pretty easily from cuttings. Simply sever a branch and replant in moist, well-drained soil.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Cereus.
Links
- Back to genus Cereus
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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