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Cactus Succulent

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

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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Blue Green
Summer Blue Green White Red
Autumn Blue Green
Winter Blue Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H1B
Botanical 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

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