Xerophyte

Central Spines

one straight 2 to5 cm. long;

Description

Candelabra cactus, less branched than other species in genus, but taller up to 5 m tall, with a very stout trunk and short ascending branches.

Note

In habit and fruit this species is very similar to the well-known Myrtillocactus geometrizans, but differs from it greatly in colour of stem and in the areoles and spines.

Flowers

Rather small, whitish or crème up to 4cm, somewhat resembling orange flowers, having scarcely any tubes; the short stamens are almost entirely exerted.

Blooming Season

Diurnal in summer.

Ribs

7-8

Stem

Dark green, erected, up to 10 cm in diameter.

Radial Spines

6 to 8, straight, 5 to 12 mm long, black or brownish;

Fruits

Small, globular or oblong berries, 10 to 15 mm. long, edible; seeds very small, black.

Areoles

Circular crowded with black felt, about 5 mm. apart;