Scientific Name
Stenocereus beneckei f. inermis (informal name)
Accepted Scientific Name
Stenocereus beneckei (Ehrenb.) A. Berger & Buxb.
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Pachycereeae
Genus: Stenocereus
Etymology
The specific epithet "beneckei" (pronounced "bee-NEK-ee-eye") honors the Berlin-born trader Stephan (Etienne) Benecke (1808–1879), who emigrated to Mexico.
The formal epithet "inermis" (pronounced "IN-er-mis") means "unarmed; lacking spines or teeth" and refers to the stems of this form, which are almost spineless.
Origin of Stenocereus beneckei f. inermis
Stenocereus beneckei f. inermis is a spineless form of Stenocereus beneckei.
Description of Stenocereus beneckei f. inermis
Stenocereus beneckei f. inermis is a shrubby cactus with bluish-green or bronze-green stems that have 5 to 9 tuberculate ribs and a white, waxy coating. Its white, almost spineless stems can distinguish it from the typical form. The stems are erect to decumbent and can 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, and appear in winter. They can reach a length of 2 inches (5 cm).
How to Grow and Care for Stenocereus beneckei f. inermis
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25°F (-3.9°C) to 50°F (10°C).
Like most cacti, Cereus are fairly low-maintenance and hardy. Ensure they receive sufficient water without becoming waterlogged, especially during the summer, and fertilize them for optimal results. If the roots have turned black or become overly soft, the cactus may 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.
If your Cereus outgrows its container, it may become necessary to repot it. If so, make sure the soil is dry, and then remove the pot. Knock away old soil, prune any rotted or dead roots, then replant in a new pot and backfill with fresh soil. Ensure you do not overwater cacti planted in new pots, as this can lead to root rot. It should be left dry for about a week, then lightly watered.
These cacti propagate quite easily from cuttings. 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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