Weberbauerocereus

Family. Cactaceae.

Origin. Peru, Chile.

Description. Weberbauerocereus is a large, slowly growing columnar or tree-like cactus with tall, erect stems up to 20 cm in diameter, having numerous small ribs with pubescent areoles. Often lateral shoots appear at the base of the stems. The spines are golden, numerous, thick. The flowers are funnel-shaped, white or reddish, up to 10 cm in diameter, most often appear in the apical part of the stem. The flower tubes are covered with sparse hairs. After flowering, round green fruits up to 2 cm in diameter are formed, which turn red when ripe.

Height. Up to 5 m.

Home care

Temperature conditions

It is thermophilic, in winter it is advisable to reduce the temperature to 10 - 15 ° C. It tolerates short-term frosts if it is in dry soil. 

Lighting for cactus

A very bright place, with direct sunlight several hours a day.

Care

This beautiful South American cactus thrives in a warm and sunny location!

Substrate

Standard cactus mix with the addition of coarse sand and perlite for best drainage. 

Feeding

Every month, use liquid fertilizer for cacti and succulents at half strength. During the dormant period, stop feeding.

Flowering time

Summer. 

Air humidity

It is perfectly adapted to the dry air of heated rooms and does not require spraying.

Soil moisture

Water moderately, since these cacti are drought tolerant, allow the soil to dry out between waterings. During the winter months, place plants in a cool place and keep them mostly dry. 

Transplant

In spring, as it grows. Adult plants need to be replanted every 2 - 3 years to change the substrate.

Reproduction

Seeds.

Pests and diseases

Rotting due to insufficient drainage or excessive watering, especially in the autumn and winter months.

Harmful insects can include mealybugs, spider mites and scale insects.

Note

Be careful when handling the cactus, as the spines can scratch your hands. Wear gloves to protect against thorns.