Scientific Name
Cereus hildmannianus subsp. uruguayanus (R.Kiesling) N.P.Taylor
Synonym(s)
Cereus uruguayanus, Piptanthocereus bageanus, Piptanthocereus uruguayanus
Common Name(s)
Andes Organ Pipe, Hedge Cactus, Peruvian Apple, Spiny Hedge Cactus, Spiny Tree Cactus, Queen of the Night
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Cereeae
Genus: Cereus
Etymology
The subspecific epithet "uruguayanus" (pronounced "ur-uh-gway-AN-us") means "of or pertaining to Uruguay" and refers to the origin of this subspecies.
Origin
Cereus hildmannianus subsp. uruguayanus is native to Uruguay.
Description
Cereus hildmannianus subsp. uruguayanus is a slow-growing columnar cactus with segmented, cylindrical, blue-green to dull green stems that usually have 5 to 6 ribs lined with clusters of golden-yellow to brown spines. It can grow up to 33 feet (10 m) tall, branching from the base. The stem segments can measure up to 6 inches (15 cm) in diameter.
The showy, white flowers appear in spring and summer and open at night. They can reach a diameter of 6 inches (15 cm). The fruits are red, pear-shaped, with white pulp and crunchy black seeds.
How to Grow and Care for Cereus hildmannianus subsp. uruguayanus
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zone 9a to 11b: from 20°F (-6.7°C) to 50°F (10°C).
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 turned black or become overly soft, the cactus may 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 the old soil, prune out any rotted or dead roots, then replant in a new pot and backfill with fresh soil. Ensure you do not overwater cacti planted in new pots, as this can lead to root rot. It should be left dry for about a week, then lightly watered.
These cacti propagate pretty easily from cuttings. 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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