Scientific Name
Cereus validus 'Spiralis'
Common Name(s)
Contorted Cereus, Spiraled Cereus, Twisted Cereus
Synonym(s)
Cereus forbesii 'Spiralis', Cereus peruvianus 'Spiralis'
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Cereeae
Genus: Cereus
Description
Cereus validus 'Spiralis', also known as Cereus forbesii 'Spiralis', is a rare attractive cactus with numerous columnar, spiral-growing stems. The stems have short spines along the ribs and can measure up to 16.5 feet (5 m) tall and 5 inches (12.5 cm) in diameter.
This cactus blooms profusely during the summer. The flowers are white, followed by ornamental red fruits.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °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, 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 it 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
Cereus validus 'Spiralis' is a selected form of Cereus validus. A few branches from the original plant were imported into Europe around 1980 for a very high price. The original clone, also known as the "short-spined clone," was characterized by strong grey stems covered with a dense pruina coating and short spines. Nowadays, almost all the plants on the trade are seed-grown hybrid specimens derived from cross-pollination with probably Cereus repandus (formerly known as Cereus peruvianus) or Cereus stenogonus. They are usually darker blue-green with longer spines.
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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