Pilosocereus Pachycladus
Family
Cactaceae
Native
Brazil
Description
Pilosocereus cacti are mostly shrubby or columnar tree-like cereus 1 to 10 (or more) m tall.. The fertile portion of Blue cactus is often slightly differentiated from normal vegetative parts. Its elegant habit (shape) makes it look like a miniature blue Saguaro. This is one of the bluest columnar cacti.
The floriferous areole are usually located on one or more ribs near the apical part of the branches and produce thick, soft tufts of orange / white hair (sort-of like that seen in 'old man cacti' Cephalocereus senilis). This area of the cactus is where the flowers pop out.
Their flowers are shaped like tubes and also often blue, and they grow fleshy fruits. The flowers open at night in summer and continue the day after. Flowers are seen only in large, mature specimen at least 1 m tall.
Environment
Like most cacti, plenty of sunshine will keep this cacti more than happy.
Pilosocereus plants like a dry soil with some organic material, and good drainage is essential. Weekly watering should be sufficient for their water needs: they need a solid supply of water during the summer. Make sure not to overwater them, which can cause rot.
Complementing their water with a diluted liquid fertilizer once every few weeks during the growing season will help: use a balanced fertilizer like a 20-20-20.
Landscape Uses
It is an excellent plant for garden rockery settings, desert type landscapes, patios and botanical gardens