Scientific Name
Myrtillocactus geometrizans f. cristatus P.V.Heath
Common Name(s)
Crested Blue Candle, Crested Blue Flame, Crested Blue Myrtle, Dinosaur Back Plant
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Echinocereeae
Genus: Myrtillocactus
Description
Myrtillocactus geometrizans f. cristatus is a stunning slow-growing cactus that forms a blue-grey tree-like trunk that tends to fan out and cluster over one another.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
In summer, place Myrtillocactus in direct sunlight. In winter, find a cooler, light spot. That will allow it to go well-rested into next spring, 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. Need a well-drained soil mix with small gravel added to ensure drainage.
Myrtillocactus are semi-hardy, make sure that your cactus is not exposed to temperatures below 25 °F (-4 °C), or they may die. Nevertheless, it is good advice never to let the nighttime temperatures fall below 50 °F (10 °C).
Feed your Myrtillocactus once a month in spring and summer using special cactus food.
Since they are big-sized plants, they need plenty of space for their roots. Repotting should be done every other year or when the plant has outgrown its pot.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Myrtillocactus.
Origin
This cactus is a crested form of Myrtillocactus geometrizans. It is usually selected in cultivation, but crested specimens are also found in its natural habitat in central and northern Mexico.
Cultivars
Links
- Back to genus Myrtillocactus
- Succulentopedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
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