Scientific Name
Polaskia chichipe (Rol.-Goss.) Backeb.
Common Name(s)
Chichipe
Synonym(s)
Cereus chichipe, Cereus mixtecensis, Lemaireocereus chichipe, Lemaireocereus mixtecensis, Myrtillocactus chichipe
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Pachycereeae
Genus: Polaskia
Origin
Polaskia chichipe is native to Mexico (Puebla and Oaxaca).
Description
Polaskia chichipe is a tree-like cactus with a short main stem that branches freely at the top as the plant matures. It can grow up to 16.5 feet (5 m) tall. The branches are greenish-grey, slightly curved, and have 9 to 12 acute wavy ribs lined with clusters of spines. Each areole bears 6 to 7 radial spines, measuring up to 2 inches (5 cm) long, and one longer grayish central spine.
The flowers are small and yellowish-green or pinkish-white in color. The edible fruits are red, spherical, and can reach up to 1.2 inches (3 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 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 that cacti are not overwatered when 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.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Cereus.
Links
- Back to genus Polaskia
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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