Pilosocereus pachycladus aka Blue Columnar Cactus

Taxonomy

Pilosocereus pachycladus, also known as the Blue Torch Cactus, is a slow-growing, upright cactus native to Minas Gerais, Brazil, as well as tropical and subtropical regions of Central and South America. This unique plant features columnar, branching stems that are blue-green in color and lined with ribbed areoles. These areoles bear tan-colored spines and fine white hairs, giving the cactus a distinctive appearance. While it can reach heights of up to 10 meters in its native range, it tends to be smaller in cultivation. During the summer, the Blue Torch Cactus produces stunning funnel-shaped white flowers that may be tinged with red at the tips. These flowers bloom at night and are followed by fig-shaped fruits. In addition to its striking features, the Blue Torch Cactus is also identified as an upright, columnar-shaped plant native to the Sonoran Desert in Arizona and Mexico. It can grow up to 10 feet tall and develops an even more intense blue color as it ages. The cactus is adorned with downy fur along its ribs and golden spines. Its crown is typically covered in deep purple flowers, which attract various pollinators. With its unique appearance and beautiful blooms, the Blue Torch Cactus would make a captivating addition to any plant collection.

Common names

Blue Columnar Cactus

How to care for Blue Columnar Cactus

Difficulty

Blue Columnar Cactus is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Water

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

Soil

When it comes to the Blue Columnar Cactus, a potting soil that is too moist can cause problems. For this reason, it's important to use a soil mix that is well-draining and does not retain too much moisture. A soil that includes perlite or vermiculite for drainage and organic matter for nutrition is ideal. You can achieve this by simply adding a few scoops of perlite to your store-bought cactus soil.

Lighting

Blue Columnar Cactus requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Blue Columnar Cactus will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Blue Columnar Cactus to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Cat approves this plant

Toxicity

Blue Columnar Cactus is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.

Humidity

Blue Columnar Cactus enjoys dry environments, but misting the plant or providing extra humidity can create an environment for harmful fungi to thrive on the leaves.

Fertilizer

The growth of Blue Columnar Cactus is not rapid and it doesn't necessitate any extra fertilization. By replacing its potting soil once a year, it should receive ample nutrition. It is important to note that plants obtain their energy from the sun's rays, not from fertilizers.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.

Region of origin

Blue Columnar Cactus’s native range is Central and South America.

Flower

If you provide your Blue Columnar Cactus with adequate amounts of sunlight and water, it will bloom.


More info:
Wikipedia