Myrtillocactus geometrizans (Bilberry Cactus)

Scientific Name

Myrtillocactus geometrizans (Mart. ex Pfeiff.) Console

Common Names

Bilberry Cactus, Whortleberry Cactus, Blue Candle

Synonyms

Cereus geometrizans, Myrtillocactus grandiareolatus

Scientific Classification

Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Echinocereeae
Genus: Myrtillocactus

Description

Myrtillocactus geometrizans is a large shrubby cactus growing up to 16.5 feet (5 m) tall, with candelabra-like branching on mature plants. It is fast growing, and is often used as grafting stock because of this. The individual stems are up to 4 inches (10 cm) diameter, with five (occasionally six) ribs, with areoles spaced up to 1.2 inches (3 cm) apart. The flowers are creamy white, up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. The fruit is an edible dark purple berry up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.

Photo via wikimedia.org

How to Grow and Care

They are semi hardy, make sure that your Myrtillocactus are not exposed to temperatures below 25°F (-4°C) or they may die, nevertheless it is a good advice never let the nighttime's temperatures fall below 50°F (10°C). In the summer place Myrtillocactus in the sunshine (indoors or outdoors). In the winter find a cooler, light spot. That will allow it to go into next spring well-rested, which will make it more likely to flower. This easy-care plant doesn't want a lot of water. Allow the soil to dry out before you give it another drink. Keep the soil completely dry in winter. Treat it to special cactus food once a month in the spring and summer.

If the plant needs repotting, use a fairly impoverished soil specially designed for cacti. By seed or cutting (allow the cut surface to dry out for 2-3 weeks before placing in an open rooting media)… – See more at: How to Grow and Care for Myrtillocactus.