Scientific Name
Cereus validus 'Ming Thing'
Accepted Scientific Name
Cereus validus Haw.
Synonym(s)
Cereus forbesii f. monstruosus, Cereus forbesii 'Ming Thing', Cereus validus f. monstruosus, Cereus validus 'Ming Thing', Cereus 'Ming Thing'
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Cereeae
Genus: Cereus
Origin
Cereus 'Ming Thing' is a form of Cereus validus selected for its dwarf monstrose growth.
Description
Cereus 'Ming Thing', also known as Cereus validus 'Ming Thing' or Cereus forbesii 'Ming Thing', is a unique cactus that forms dense sculptural clusters of many bizarro blue-green branches with woolly areoles and short black spines at the top. It slowly grows up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall and 6 inches (15 cm) wide.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °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 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 remove the pot. Knock away old soil, prune away 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, as this 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.
Learn 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
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.
