Ritterocereus

Family. Cactaceae.

Origin. Mexico.

Description. Ritterocereus is a large tree-like cactus with vertical green stems with a diameter of 8 - 12 cm, often covered with bluish stripes or white spots. The stems become woody with age and branch at the base, forming lateral shoots. The ribs are high and sparsely spaced. The spines are strong, straight, up to 3 cm long, dark, sparse. The flowers are large - up to 7 cm in diameter, funnel-shaped, pink or white.

Height. The cactus produces large seasonal growth under optimal conditions; in its natural environment it reaches 7 m in height.

Home care

Temperature conditions

Representatives of this species can withstand short-term frosts down to -2° C, but become prone to rotting. Winter care consists of lowering the temperature to 8 - 12° C. The plant needs a cool period of rest for abundant flowering in the following season.

Lighting

A brightly lit place, cacti should receive direct sunlight in the morning and evening. It can grow in partial shade, but flowering will not occur in such conditions.

Care

Encourage dormancy by reducing watering and stopping fertilizing in winter, as low light in winter causes stems to become elongated and thin.

Substrate

Standard cactus mix with high sand and perlite content, well drained.

Feeding

Fertilizers with a high potassium content are applied monthly during the period of active growth.

Purpose

Ritterocereus is a relatively easy to grow cactus, but it needs to be given some space to thrive.

Flowering time

Flowers appear in spring on mature specimens that are over 3 m tall.

Air humidity

There are no special requirements, it tolerates dryness easily. Place the cactus in a ventilated area with sufficient air movement.

Soil moisture

Requires moderate watering, once a week or more often in the summer if the weather is sunny. Allow the substrate to dry out before watering again. Keep fairly dry as soon as temperatures start to drop in October and completely dry in winter. 

Transfer

It grows relatively quickly and needs to be replanted every two years.

Reproduction

Ritterocereus propagates by stem cuttings or seeds. Take the cuttings in spring or summer, let them dry out and plant them in fresh, slightly moist soil. 

Pests and diseases

Rots when there is excess moisture, especially during autumn and winter.

Red mites, mealybugs, thrips and aphids sometimes appear.

Note

In Mexico, ritterocereus fruits are eaten.