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
Description
Cereus stenogonus is a branched columnar cactus that grows up to 26 feet (8 m) tall. The stems are erect, bluish-green or yellowish-green, cylindrical, with 4 or 5 ribs, and up to 3.6 inches (9 cm) in diameter. Spines are yellow with black tips and up to 1.8 inches (4.5 cm) long. Flowers are pink to rose, funnel-shaped, and up to 9 inches (22.5 cm) long. Fruits are red or orange, egg-shaped, and 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. Make sure 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, make sure the soil is dry and then remove the pot. Knock away old soil, prune away any rotted or dead roots, then replace it in a new pot and backfill with fresh soil. Make sure 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 quite easily from cuttings. Simply sever a branch and replant in moist, well-drained soil.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Cereus.
Origin
This species is native to Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
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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