Austrocylindropuntia cylindrica aka Cane Cactus

Taxonomy

Austrocylindropuntia cylindrica, more commonly known as the cane cactus, is a robust, shrubby cactus that is native to Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, but has been introduced to other countries too. It has branched stem segments that are dark green in color with rhomboid tubercles and white areoles and spines. It can also be topped with tiny (0.5" long) awl-shaped leaves, and bloom with showy red flowers up to 3.0" long. It is a popular ornamental and an invasive species in Europe, South Africa, and Australia. This cactus variety is susceptible to frost, so should be brought indoors in cold climates and placed near a sunny window or under a grow light. It does best in direct light and should be kept at least 1 foot away from the window. Water deeply, but less frequently, allowing the soil to completely dry out before watering again. It should not need additional fertilizers as long as it is repotted as it doubles in size.

Common names

Cane Cactus, Emerald Idol, San Pedro Cactus

How to care for Cane Cactus

Difficulty

Caring for Cane Cactus is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

Water

Cane Cactus does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

Soil

To keep your Cane Cactus healthy, it's important to use a potting soil that won't retain too much moisture. A soil that drains well and contains perlite or vermiculite for drainage and some organic matter for nutrition is ideal. Adding a few handfuls of perlite to regular cactus soil from the store is an easy way to create this type of soil mix.

Lighting

Cane Cactus requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Emerald Idol is always in the right place to thrive.

Toxicity

There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.

Humidity

Cane Cactus thrives in dry environments, but if you provide extra humidity or mist your plant, the lingering water on its leaves could create an ideal environment for certain fungal diseases.

Fertilizer

The Cane Cactus is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.

Region of origin

Cane Cactus’s native range is South America.


More info:
Wikipedia