Scientific Name
Cephalocereus polylophus (DC.) Britton & Rose
Common Name(s)
Cone Cactus, Golden Saguaro, Golden-spined Saguaro, Wax Cactus
Synonym(s)
Carnegiea polylopha, Carnegiea polylopha, Cereus polylophus, Neobuxbaumia polylopha, Pilocereus polylophus
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Pachycereeae
Genus: Cephalocereus
Origin
Cephalocereus polylophus is found only in Mexico and is confined to a small area in Guanajuato.
Description
Cephalocereus polylophus, formerly known as Neobuxbaumia polylopha, is a columnar cactus with a pale green, usually solitary stem with 10 and 30 ribs lined with clusters of 4 to 8 bristle-like spines. It can grow up to 50 feet (15 m) tall and up to 14 inches (35 cm) in diameter. The spines are yellowish, turning grey as they age, and can reach up to 0.8 inches (2 cm) in length.
The flowers are vivid pink, dark red, or magenta and appear at night in the summer.
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 cultivate these without much problem.
It may become necessary to repot your Cereus if it outgrows its container. If so, ensure the soil is dry and then remove the pot. Knock away old soil, prune away rotted or dead roots, then replace it in a new pot and backfill it with fresh soil. Ensure 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. Sever a branch and replant in moist, well-drained soil.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Cereus.
Links
- Back to genus Cephalocereus
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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