Lemaireocereus

Family. Cactaceae.

Origin. Central America, Mexico.

Description. Currently, some species of lemaireocereus are classified as Pachycereus, and some are classified as Stenocereus. Large, tree-like cacti with tall, dark green, often branching at the base, club-shaped stems with a diameter of 15 - 20 cm. The ribs are clearly defined, vertical, and few in number. The spines are strong, straight, black or brown, but lighten to white or light gray with age. The flowers are funnel-shaped, white, lilac or pink, medium-sized - up to 6 cm in diameter, but numerous, open in the daytime. After flowering, it forms spherical or ovoid fruits; in many species they are edible and palatable. Each fruit contains many small black seeds.

Height. In its natural environment it reaches 8 m in height. Grows relatively quickly in good conditions.

Home care

Temperature conditions

In spring and summer, a room temperature of about 20° C is suitable. In winter, do not expose the plant to temperatures below 12° C. 

Lighting

Maximum possible lighting, in spring and summer daytime shading is possible. In the morning and evening direct sunlight should fall on the lemaireocereus for 3-4 hours daily - this will promote flowering.

Care

As a rule, the cactus is easy to cultivate and is maintained without any problems. Suitable for beginners. 

Substrate

The soil should easily pass water and air, pH not higher than 6.5. A mixture of leaf humus, turf soil with a large amount of coarse river sand or perlite to improve drainage and small pieces of charcoal is suitable. You can use a ready-made substrate for cacti and succulents. 

Feeding

Feed from spring to fall with a high-potassium liquid fertilizer for cacti and succulents.  

Flowering time

In spring and summer. 

Air humidity

At any time of the year, the air should be dry; lemaireocereus does not need spraying.

Soil moisture

Water regularly during the warm season; allow the soil to dry to ½ depth before each subsequent watering. In winter, simply do not allow the soil to dry out completely. 

Transplant

Every 2 - 3 years, plants need spring replanting to change the substrate. It is advisable to grow in clay pots with large drainage holes, the walls of which allow the root system to breathe and allow moisture to pass through.

Reproduction

Propagated by seeds sown in spring. The cuttings are separated with a sharp sterile instrument, the cut site is dried for several days and rooted in damp sand in spring and summer.

Pests and diseases

Lemaireocereus is susceptible to fungal diseases when overwatered.  Pests may include mealybugs, spider mites and scale insects. 

Note

The fruits of this cactus are eaten fresh and dried.