Pilosocereus pachycladus
blue torch cactus
A slow-growing, upright cactus with columnar, branching, blue-green stems, ribbed and lined with areoles bearing tan-coloured spines and fine white hairs. Can reach up to 10m in its native range but much smaller in cultivation. In summer, funnel shaped white flowers, sometimes flushed with red at the tips, are produced at night, and are followed by fig-shaped fruits
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Blue Green | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Blue Green | White Red | ||
Autumn | Blue Green | |||
Winter | Blue Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing
Exposure
ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H1BBotanical details
- Family
- Cactaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Columnar upright, Spreading branched
- Genus
Pilosocereus is a genus of vigorous and fast-growing cacti which often become large in size, with some varieties reaching over 4m. Some species are branched in form and night-flowering whilst other are more shrub or tree-like. Many have an attractive blue colour. Flowers are funnel-shaped with greenish or reddish outer segments.
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Brazil
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in a standard cactus mix with sharp drainage, in a bright sunny spot; could be placed outdoors in a sheltered spot in summer. Ensure a minimum temperature of 12°C year round. Water freely in late spring and summer, keep just moist at other times. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation
Propagation
Propagate by seed, sown at 19-24°C in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- Houseplants
- Patio and container plants
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to mealybugs, and to ants if planted outdoors
Diseases
Generally disease-free, though over-watering will cause rot
Get involved
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