Haageocereus

Family. Cactaceae.

Origin. Chile, Peru.

Description. Haageocereus are large tree-like cacti with vertical or reclining stems branching at the base. The stems are cylindrical, with numerous shallow ribs arranged vertically. The spines are straight, strong, and abundantly cover the stem of the plant. The flowers appear closer to the top of the stem, white or pink, large and fragrant, opening at night.

Height. 30 - 90 cm.

Haageocereus - home care

Temperature conditions

During the growing season, the ideal temperature range is from 18 to 24 ° C. In the fall, plants are put into dormancy mode by placing them in a cool room with a temperature of 10 - 14 ° C.

Lighting

Like most cacti, Haageocereus is light-loving and should be shaded only during the daytime in spring and summer.

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 monthly with fertilizers for cacti and succulents high in potassium, calcium and phosphorus. The fertilizer is diluted to half the recommended dose and applied in spring and summer. During the dormant period, cacti are not fed.

Purpose

A very rare collection plant. With age, it takes on an impressive size and requires a lot of free space. 

Flowering time

In indoor culture it blooms very rarely.

Air humidity

Does not require spraying. During the fall and winter, keep the cactus in a dry atmosphere and provide it with sufficient air movement without cold drafts. 

Soil moisture

Water until the soil ball is completely soaked during the growth period, but allow the soil to dry to a depth of about 3 cm before each subsequent watering. Drain excess moisture from the tray a few minutes after watering. In the winter months, watering is kept to a minimum, trying only to prevent the soil from completely drying out. 

Transplant

Haageocereus grows quite slowly and needs spring replanting approximately every 2 - 3 years.

Reproduction

Seeds sown in spring. 

Pests and diseases

Cacti rot, especially during the dormant period, with the slightest over-watering.

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