Care of the cactus Stenocereus dumortieri or Candelabra cactus |
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The genus Isolatocereus, family Cactaceae, is now included in the genus Stenocereus, which comprises 20 species of cacti native to Mexico, the southwestern US, Central America, Venezuela, and Colombia. Some species are: Stenocereus dumortieri, Stenocereus pruinosus, Stenocereus eruca, Stenocereus alamosensis, Stenocereus griseus, Stenocereus montanus. Common name: Candelabra cactus. Scientific synonyms: Isolatocereus dumortieri. This species is native to Central Mexico. They are cacti with a bluish green color and columnar bearing that branch vertically and reach 6 meters (19.68 feet) in height. They have 6-7 ribs with closely spaced areoles that have 9-11 radial spines and 1-4 central spines. The flowers are greenish-white in color and sprout at the apex of the plant. They produce edible reddish fruits. These easy-to-grow plants are used in rockery, as isolated specimens and in small groups. They are also used in pots when they are young. They are ideal for Mediterranean coastal gardens. Stenocereus dumortieri needs full sun exposure and a hot, dry climate. In winter the temperature should not be less than 2 ºC (35.6 ºF). The soil should drain well and contain some organic matter; use a mixture of 75% commercial cactus substrate and 25% garden soil. In spring and summer water moderately, waiting for the soil to have dried; every 15 days in spring and every 7 days in summer. Reduce watering in fall and do not water in winter. Fertilize once with mineral fertilizer in mid-spring and again in early summer. They do not need pruning. The biggest danger to these plants is overwatering which can rot roots and tissues. They are propagated by branch cuttings or from seeds sown in spring. |
Images of the cactus Stenocereus dumortieri or Candelabra cactus |
 Stenocereus dumortieri  Stenocereus dumortieri |