Scientific Name
Stenocereus beneckei f. inermis
Accepted Scientific Name
Stenocereus beneckei (Ehrenb.) A. Berger & Buxb.
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Pachycereeae
Genus: Stenocereus
Origin
This cactus is a spineless form of Stenocereus beneckei.
Description
Stenocereus beneckei f. inermis is a shrubby cactus with bluish-green or bronze-green stems with 5 to 9 tuberculate ribs and a white waxy coating. It can be distinguished from the typical form by its white, almost spineless stems. The stems are erect to decumbent and grow up to 6.5 feet (2 m) long and 3 inches (7.5 cm) in diameter. The night-blooming flowers are narrowly funnel-shaped, grayish-white, or cream-colored, up to 2 inches (5 cm) long, and appear in winter.
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 be able to cultivate these without much problem.
It may become necessary to repot your Cereus if it outgrows its container. If so, make sure the soil is dry, and then remove the pot. Knock away old soil, prune away any 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. 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 Stenocereus
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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