Myrtillocactus geometrizans
blue candle
A shrubby or tree-like branching cactus, to 4m tall in its native Mexico, with bluish-green, ribbed stems. Between 5-9 spines arise from each areole. Older plants produce funnel-shaped, white or cream flowers in early summer
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Blue | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White Cream | Green Blue | ||
| Autumn | Green Blue | |||
| Winter | Green Blue |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1BBotanical details
- Family
- Cactaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Spreading branched
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Mexico
How to grow
Cultivation
Under glass, grow in standard cactus compost in full light with low humidity. From mid-spring to early autumn, water moderately and apply a low-nitrogen fertiliser monthly; keep almost dry at other times. Repot every other year. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation
Propagation
Propagate by seed or stem cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Houseplants
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to mealybugs
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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