Jasminocereus

Family. Cactaceae.

Origin. Galapagos Islands.

Description. Jasminocereus is a large tree-like cactus up to 7 m in height. The stem is erect, dark green in color, has numerous ribs on which areoles with long spines are located, and often forms several additional branches. Flowers with a diameter of 6 - 9 cm, with a long flower tube, white, fragrant.

Height. Up to 7 m in natural conditions.

Home care

Temperature conditions

Like most cacti, it is thermophilic and prefers to be kept at a temperature of 16 - 24 ° C. During the winter dormant period, the temperature can be reduced to 13 - 15 ° C.

Lighting

Prefers a brightly lit location with access to direct sunlight in the morning and evening hours.

Care

Jasminocereus is quite easy to care for and unpretentious. If you follow the basic rules of watering and fertilizing, you will get a strong, hardy plant for many years.

Substrate

Well-drained soil, a ready-made mixture for cacti and succulents is suitable, grows well in soil that contains some organic matter. Add perlite or coarse river sand to the substrate to improve drainage. Do not use soils containing sphagnum moss, as it retains moisture, which can lead to root rot.

Feeding

Liquid fertilizers for cacti and succulents in half the concentration and only during the period of active growth.

Flowering time

Summer.

Air humidity

There is no need for spraying; in the autumn-winter period the air should remain dry. 

Soil moisture

Water when the top layer of soil has dried. In winter, reduce the frequency of watering so that the earthen ball does not dry out.

Transplant

Cacti can stay in the same pot for many years. Repot the plant in the spring when it has outgrown the container. After transplanting, you should water it only after a week. Use a pot with large drainage holes.

Reproduction

Quite easily propagated by cuttings rooted in moist, well-drained soil. The cut area should be dried for several days before planting. 

Pests and diseases

Root rot due to waterlogging and stagnation of water. 

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