Scientific Name
Cereus stenogonus K.Schum.
Common Name(s)
Narrow-angled Cereus
Synonym(s)
Cereus dayamii, Cereus roseiflorus, Cereus tacuaralensis, Piptanthocereus dayamii, Piptanthocereus stenogonus
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Cereeae
Genus: Cereus
Origin
Cereus stenogonus is native to Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
Description
Cereus stenogonus is a branched columnar cactus with erect, cylindrical, bluish-green or yellowish-green with 4 or 5 ribs lined with felted areoles, each bearing a cluster of short spines. It can grow up to 26 feet (8 m) tall. The stems can reach up to 3.6 inches (9 cm) in diameter. The areoles bear 2 to 4 yellow spines with black tips. The spines can grow up to 0.3 inches (0.7 cm) long.
The flowers are pink to rose, funnel-shaped, and can reach up to 9 inches (22.5 cm) in length. The fruits are red or orange, egg-shaped, and can grow up to 4 inches (10 cm) long.
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.
If your Cereus outgrows its container, it may become necessary to repot it. If so, ensure the soil is dry, then remove the pot. Knock away old soil, prune away rotted or dead roots, and then replace it in a new pot and backfill with fresh soil. Ensure that cacti are not overwatered when 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.
