A fast-growing columnar cactus from the Andes with smooth blue-green stems and few, short spines. It reaches impressive height quickly and opens huge, fragrant white flowers on summer nights.
Living with it in the Phoenix Valley
Watering
Follow the cactus guidance in our Landscape Care guide, which means watering by hand only when the plant needs it. Water deeply but rarely and let the soil dry completely in between. Drooping stems or a soft base are signs of too much water; shriveling means too little.
Pruning
Only remove damaged or dead stems. Side shoots can be cut at the base to control spread, and they root easily as cuttings.
Heat and sunburn
In Phoenix’s strongest sun, stems can yellow or scar. A spot with a little afternoon shade keeps the color fresh.
Cold
Cover the growing tips with frost cloth or foam cups on the coldest nights.
How our designers use it
Quick height
Its fast growth gives a new landscape vertical presence in just a few years.
Near living spaces
With fewer, shorter spines than most columnar cactus, it is one we are more comfortable placing near patios and entries.
Grouped columns
A cluster of stems at varied heights makes a soft-colored backdrop for agaves, aloes and barrels.
Good to know
Around the pool
Its spines are mild for a cactus, but they are still spines. We keep it a step back from the pool edge and main walkways.
