17 Popular Types Of Pilocereus Pictorial Guide

Pilocereus is a genus of cacti that belongs to the Cactaceae family. It is native to the Americas, where it grows in hot and dry regions such as deserts and semi-arid areas. Pilocereus cacti are known for their tall and slender stems, which can grow up to several meters in height. They are also distinguished by their beautiful and showy flowers that bloom at night, attracting nocturnal pollinators like bats and moths.

There are around 50 species of Pilocereus cacti, which are distributed throughout Central and South America, from Mexico to Argentina. Some of the most popular species include Pilocereus azureus, Pilocereus chrysostele, Pilocereus leucocephalus, and Pilocereus pachycladus. These cacti are highly valued by collectors and growers for their ornamental value as well as their medicinal and cultural significance.

Pilocereus cacti are highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of environments, from dry and arid deserts to humid and tropical forests. They prefer well-draining soil and full sun exposure, although they can also tolerate partial shade. These cacti are relatively easy to grow and maintain, making them a popular choice for gardeners and collectors.

One of the most distinctive features of Pilocereus cacti is their tall and slender stems, which can grow up to 15 meters in some species. These stems are covered in spines and ridges, which help the cactus protect itself from predators and conserve water. The stems also serve as a storage organ for water and nutrients, allowing the cactus to survive in harsh and arid environments.

Another striking feature of Pilocereus cacti is their beautiful and showy flowers, which bloom at night. These flowers are typically large and colorful, ranging from white and yellow to pink and red. They are also fragrant and attract a variety of nocturnal pollinators, such as bats and moths. Some species of Pilocereus cacti, such as Pilocereus leucocephalus, are also known for their edible fruit, which is harvested and consumed by local communities in some parts of the Americas.

Pilocereus cacti also have a long history of medicinal and cultural use. In traditional medicine, the cactus has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, headaches, and stomach pain. Some species of Pilocereus cacti are also believed to have psychoactive properties and have been used in traditional healing ceremonies.

In addition to their medicinal value, Pilocereus cacti are also an important cultural symbol in many parts of the Americas. They are often used in traditional ceremonies and celebrations, such as the Mexican Day of the Dead and the Brazilian Festa Junina. They are also used as decorative elements in architecture and art and are a popular motif in indigenous textiles and pottery.

In conclusion, Pilocereus cacti are a fascinating and versatile group of plants that are highly valued for their ornamental, medicinal, and cultural significance. With their tall and slender stems, beautiful flowers, and adaptability to a variety of environments, they are a popular choice for gardeners and collectors around the world. Whether grown for their beauty, their medicinal properties, or their cultural significance, Pilocereus cacti are a unique and cherished part of the plant world.

Here are the 17 Popular Types Of Pilocereus Pictorial Guide:

Pilocereus Alensis

Pilocereus Alensis is a species of cactus native to the highlands of the Brazilian state of Alagoas. It has a cylindrical stem that can grow up to 5 meters tall, with ribs and areoles that produce spines and small white hairs. The plant blooms at night, producing large white flowers that open for only one night, followed by red fruits that contain small black seeds. This species is often cultivated as an ornamental plant for its unique shape and beautiful flowers.

Pilocereus Azureus

Pilocereus Azureus is a species of cactus native to South America, known for its striking blue-green color and tall, columnar shape. It can reach heights of up to 10 meters and produces white flowers that bloom at night. It is a popular ornamental plant, often grown in gardens or as a houseplant.

Pilocereus Chrysostele

Pilocereus Chysostele is a species of cactus native to South America, particularly in Argentina, Bolivia, and Paraguay. It is commonly known as the Golden Torch cactus or Golden Candlestick cactus due to its tall, columnar growth habit and the golden spines that cover its surface. It can reach up to 10 meters in height and produces large, white flowers that bloom at night. This cactus species is often cultivated as an ornamental plant for its unique appearance and ease of care.

Pilocereus Glaucocephalus

Pilocereus Glaucocephalus is a species of columnar cactus that typically grows up to 10 meters tall. It is characterized by its blue-green stems and clusters of large, white flowers that bloom at night. The species is native to central and northern South America, where it is often found in rocky or dry habitats. It is known for its use in traditional medicine and has been studied for its potential therapeutic properties.

Pilocereus Gounellei

Pilocereus Gounellei is a species of columnar cactus found in Brazil. It has a tall, slender stem with pronounced ribs and large white flowers that bloom at night. The cactus is an important source of food and water for wildlife in its native habitat. It is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and greenhouses.

Pilocereus Lanuginosus

Pilocereus Lanuginosus is a species of cactus native to Mexico and parts of Central America. It is a tall, columnar cactus with a distinctive white, woolly coating on its stem and branches. The plant produces large, showy, white flowers that bloom at night and are pollinated by moths. It is commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a houseplant and is also used in traditional medicine for various purposes.

Pilocereus Leucocephalus

Pilocereus Leucocephalus is a species of cactus native to Central and South America. It is known for its tall, columnar shape and distinctive white woolly cap on top of the stem. The cactus produces beautiful flowers that bloom at night and are pollinated by bats. It is a popular ornamental plant but is considered endangered in some parts of its natural range due to habitat loss and overcollection.

Pilocereus Pachycladus

Pilocereus Pachycladus is a species of columnar cactus native to Mexico, characterized by its tall, slender, and branching stem that can reach up to 12 meters in height. It has long, green, and cylindrical stems with distinct vertical ridges and spines along its ribs. It produces large white flowers at night and edible red fruits. It is commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant and has cultural significance in traditional Mexican medicine.

Pilocereus Palmeri

Pilocereus Palmeri is a species of columnar cactus that is native to Mexico and known for its tall, slender stems that can reach up to 30 feet in height. It has small spines and large, showy flowers that bloom at night and attract bats and moths for pollination. It is commonly used as an ornamental plant in arid landscapes and gardens.

Pilocereus Polycladus

Pilocereus Polycladus is a species of columnar cactus native to Mexico and Central America. It typically grows up to 3 meters tall and has a cylindrical stem covered in long, white spines. The cactus produces large, showy flowers that bloom at night and are pollinated by bats. It is commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and greenhouses around the world.

Pilocereus Purpureus

Pilocereus Purpureus is a species of cactus native to Brazil, characterized by its columnar shape and purplish-pink hue. It can grow up to 10 meters tall and produces large white flowers that bloom at night. The plant is commonly used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties and is also cultivated as an ornamental plant.

Pilocereus Quadricentralis

Pilocereus Quadricentralis is a species of cactus that is native to South America. It is a tall, columnar cactus that can reach up to 12 meters in height and has four to six vertical ribs with small, white spines. It produces large, white flowers that bloom at night and are pollinated by bats. The plant is often used in traditional medicine and is also cultivated as an ornamental plant.

Pilocereus Royenii

Pilocereus Royenii is a species of columnar cactus that is native to Mexico and parts of Central America. It has a tall, slender stem that can reach up to 10 meters in height and is covered in small spines. The plant produces large, white, nocturnal flowers that bloom in the summer months, followed by edible red fruit. It is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a houseplant and is also used in traditional medicine for various ailments.

Pilocereus Schottii

Pilocereus Schottii is a species of cactus that is native to Mexico and parts of the southwestern United States. It is commonly known as the “little candle” cactus due to its cylindrical shape and spiny exterior. This cactus can grow up to 6 meters in height and produces beautiful white flowers that bloom at night. It is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a natural fence to protect livestock. The plant is also believed to have medicinal properties and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries.

Pilocereus Tillianus

Pilocereus Tillianus is a species of columnar cactus native to Central and South America. It has a tall, cylindrical stem that can reach up to 12 meters in height and is covered in small, spine-like protrusions called areoles. Pilocereus Tillianus produces large, white flowers that bloom at night and are pollinated by bats. This cactus is known for its medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, such as fever and arthritis. It is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a houseplant.

Pilocereus Tuberculatus

Pilocereus Tuberculatus is a species of cactus native to Mexico and Central America. It has a columnar stem with tubercles (bumps) and spines and produces large white or yellow flowers at night. This cactus is often cultivated as an ornamental plant for its unique appearance and attractive flowers.

Pilocereus Ulei

Pilocereus Ulei is a species of cactus native to South America, specifically found in Brazil, Colombia, and Venezuela. It is a tall, columnar cactus that can reach up to 10 meters in height, with a distinct blue-green color and numerous branches. Its white flowers bloom at night and are followed by red fruits. The plant is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, and its wood is also used for construction and fuel.

How To Grow And Care For Pilocereus

Pilocereus is a genus of cacti that includes several species commonly known as candlesticks or night-blooming cereus. These plants are prized for their striking appearance, which includes tall, columnar stems and showy, nocturnal flowers. Here are some tips on how to grow and care for Pilocereus cacti:

Light: Pilocereus cacti thrive in bright, direct sunlight. Place them near a south-facing window or outdoors in a spot that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.

Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix specifically formulated for cacti and succulents. Alternatively, you can create your own by mixing coarse sand, perlite, and peat moss in equal parts.

Watering: Pilocereus cacti are drought-tolerant and prefer to be kept on the dry side. Water appropriately, allowing the soil to dry out before the next watering. In winter, reduce watering to once every few weeks.

Temperature: Pilocereus cacti prefer warm temperatures between 70 and 90°F (21-32°C). Avoid exposing them to temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

Fertilizer: Feed your pilocereus cactus with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every other month during the growing season (spring and summer).

Repotting: Pilocereus cacti grow slowly and do not need to be repotted often. Repot them only when they outgrow their container, usually every two to three years.

Propagation: Pilocereus cacti can be propagated from stem cuttings. Allow the cuttings to dry for several days before planting them in well-draining soil. Water sparingly until new growth appears.

Pruning: Prune your Pilocereus cactus only to remove dead or damaged stems.  Avoid cutting into the healthy green tissue, as this can cause permanent damage.

By following these tips, you can successfully grow and care for Pilocereus cacti and enjoy their striking appearance and beautiful flowers.

How To Propagate Pilocereus

Pilocereus is a genus of columnar cacti native to Central and South America. Propagating Pilocereus can be done through various methods, such as stem cuttings, seeds, and offsets. Here’s how to propagate Pilocereus using stem cuttings:

Materials needed:

• Pilocereus plant
• Sharp, sterile knife or pruning shears
• Rooting hormone powder
• Well-draining potting soil
• small pot or container
• Water

Steps:

1. Choose a healthy stem from the Pilocereus plant. The stem should be at least 6 inches long, with no signs of disease or damage.
2. Using a sharp, sterile knife or pruning shears, cut a section of the stem that is about 3–4 inches long.
3. Let the cutting dry out for a day or two to allow the cut to callus over. This helps to prevent the cutting from rotting when it’s planted.
4. Dip the end of the cutting in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth.
5. Fill a small pot or container with well-draining potting soil.
6. Make a hole in the soil with your finger or a pencil, and insert the cutting into the soil.
7. Water the cutting lightly to moisten the soil, but be careful not to overwater it.
8. Place the pot or container in a warm, bright location but out of direct sunlight.
9. Maintain the moisture level in the soil, but do not let it become waterlogged, and avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
10. After a few weeks, you should start to see new growth on the cutting, which means it has successfully rooted.
11. Once the cutting has developed a strong root system and new growth, you can transplant it into a larger pot or into the ground, depending on your preference.

Overall, Pilocereus is relatively easy to propagate through stem cuttings, and with proper care and attention, you can enjoy a new, healthy plant in no time.

Top 5 FAQ And Answers For Pilocereus

Q: What is Pilocereus?
A: Pilocereus is a genus of cacti that consists of around 40 species, commonly known as the “old man cactus” or “cactus de viejo” due to the long, white hairs that cover the body of the plant.

Q: How do I care for Pilocereus?
A: Pilocereus is a low-maintenance plant that prefers bright, indirect sunlight and well-draining soil. Water the plant sparingly and allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Q: How often should I water Pilocereus?
A: Pilocereus does not require frequent watering and should be allowed to dry out between waterings. Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch, usually once every 2-3 weeks during the growing season and even less frequently in the winter.

Q: How big do Pilocereus plants grow?
A: Pilocereus plants can grow up to 20 feet (6 meters) tall in their natural habitat, but in cultivation, they usually grow to around 3-6 feet (1-2 meters) tall.

Q: How do I propagate Pilocereus?
A: Pilocereus can be propagated from stem cuttings. Allow the cutting to dry out for a few days before planting it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and in bright, indirect sunlight until the cutting has rooted and starts to grow.

Top 10 Interesting Facts About Pilocereus

Pilocereus is a genus of cacti that includes over 60 species found in the Americas, particularly in Mexico and Brazil. Here are ten interesting facts about Pilocereus:

1. The name “Pilocereus” comes from the Greek words “pilos,” meaning “hair,” and “cereus,” meaning “wax candle,” because of the hairy spines and columnar shape of the plant.
2. Some Pilocereus species can grow up to 60 feet (18 meters) tall, making them some of the tallest cacti in the world.
3. Pilocereus cacti are often referred to as “night-blooming cacti” because their flowers typically open at night and close in the morning.
4. The flowers of Pilocereus cacti are typically white, but some species produce pink or yellow flowers.
5. Pilocereus cacti are often pollinated by bats, which are attracted to the sweet scent of the flowers.
6. Some Pilocereus species have been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, inflammation, and diarrhea.
7. Pilocereus azureus, also known as the blue torch cactus, is a popular ornamental plant that is prized for its striking blue-green color and upright growth habit.
8. Pilocereus species are often found in arid regions and are adapted to survive in harsh desert conditions.
9. Pilocereus cacti are slow-growing and can take several years to reach maturity.
10. Like many cacti, Pilocereus species are drought-tolerant and can survive long periods of time without water.