Yungasocereus

Family. Cactaceae.

Origin: Bolivia.

Description. Yungasocereus is a monotypic genus consisting of only one species. It is a weakly branched large cactus with slender - 6-8 cm in diameter, erect green stems. The stems bear several vertical, low, rounded ribs. The areoles have very dense brown pubescence. The spines are short, straight, light. The flowers are large, greenish-cream, appear near the top of the stems, open at night.

Height: In the natural environment it reaches 4-6 m.

Care at home

Temperature conditions

In spring and summer, normal room temperature. In winter, temperatures from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius with plenty of light. Withstands short-term frosts down to -2 ° C if kept dry. Needs a cool rest period for abundant flowering.

Lighting

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

Care

An unpretentious cactus that will eventually require a lot of free space to grow.

Substrate

Standard cactus mix with excellent drainage in the form of coarse sand or perlite.

Feeding

Feed monthly with fertilizers for cacti and succulents with a high content of 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

Yungasocereus is extremely rare in collections and is prized by lovers of curiosities.

Flowering time

Summer. 

Air humidity

No need to spray, in autumn and winter, when the cactus is in a cool place, the air should be dry. Provide representatives of this species with a ventilated room with a good air flow.

Soil moisture

Water in spring and summer until the soil ball is completely wet, be sure to remove excess water that has accumulated in the tray after watering. The soil should be dried between waterings. In the autumn-winter period, water very carefully - only to avoid drying out the soil ball.

Transplantation

Yungasocereus easily tolerates replanting, which is carried out once every 2-3 years, in the spring.

Reproduction

Seeds.

Pests and diseases

Rotting occurs due to insufficient drainage or overwatering, especially during the fall and winter months.

Red spider mites, mealybugs, thrips and aphids sometimes appear.