Scientific Name
Peniocereus serpentinus (Lag. & Rodr.) N.P.Taylor
Common Name(s)
Snake Cactus, Mexican Night-blooming Cereus, Mexican Night-bloom Cereus, Serpent Cactus, Queen of the Night
Synonym(s)
Cactus serpentinus, Cereus serpentinus, Nyctocereus castellanosii, Nyctocereus serpentinus, Peniocereus castellanosii
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Pachycereeae
Genus: Peniocereus
Origin
Peniocereus serpentinus is native to Mexico.
Description
Peniocereus serpentinus, sometimes listed as Nyctocereus serpentinus, is a fast-growing cactus that puts out offshoots at the base to form a cluster. The stems are slender and cylindrical and can grow up to 20 feet (6 m) in height and 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter. They have 10 to 17 ribs running down the length of the stem, with grooves between these. Initially, the stems are upright but sprawl to the side unless supported by surrounding vegetation as they lengthen. At close intervals along the ribs, there are clusters of 9 to 14 needle-like spines. The spines are reddish-brown, initially with darker tips, whitening with age, and can measure 1.2 inches (3 cm) long.
The nocturnal flowers are white, funnel-shaped, and can reach up to 8 inches (20 cm) in length and 6 inches (15 cm) in diameter.
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. 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, ensure the soil is dry and then remove the pot. Knock away old soil, prune out 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 pretty 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 Peniocereus
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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