Contents
Description
Pilosocereus Gounellei is a cactus species native to Brazil. This slow-growing plant has a cylindrical stem that can grow up to 10 meters tall and 10 centimeters in diameter. The stem is covered in grayish-brown spines that can grow up to 5 centimeters long. The plant produces small, white flowers that bloom at night and are followed by small, edible fruits that are red or purple in color. The fruits are often used by locals to make jelly or eaten raw.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Pilosocereus |
Appearance
Pilosocereus Gounellei has a unique appearance that makes it stand out from other cactus species. Its cylindrical stem is covered in grayish-brown spines that can grow up to 5 centimeters long. The stem can grow up to 10 meters tall and 10 centimeters in diameter. The plant produces small, white flowers that bloom at night and are followed by small, edible fruits that are red or purple in color. The fruits are often eaten raw or used to make jelly.
Care Guide
To care for Pilosocereus Gounellei, you should provide it with proper water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and hardiness zones.Water: This cactus species prefers well-draining soil and only needs to be watered when the soil is completely dry. Fertilization: Pilosocereus Gounellei should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a cactus-specific fertilizer. Soil: This cactus species thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. Sunlight: Pilosocereus Gounellei should be placed in bright, indirect sunlight. Hardiness Zones: This cactus species can tolerate temperatures down to 20°F and is suitable for hardiness zones 9b-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pilosocereus Gounellei is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and root rot if overwatered.Mealybugs: These pests appear as white, cotton-like masses on the stem and can be removed with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Spider Mites: These pests appear as tiny, reddish-brown spots on the stem and can be removed with insecticidal soap. Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and can be prevented by ensuring the soil is well-draining and the plant is not overwatered.
Habitat
Pilosocereus Gounellei is native to Brazil and can be found growing in dry, rocky areas. It is often found growing alongside other cactus species in its natural habitat.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pilosocereus Gounellei suitable for indoor growing?
A: Yes, Pilosocereus Gounellei can be grown indoors if provided with bright, indirect sunlight.Q: Can Pilosocereus Gounellei be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Pilosocereus Gounellei can be propagated from stem cuttings.Q: How often should Pilosocereus Gounellei be fertilized?
A: Pilosocereus Gounellei should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a cactus-specific fertilizer.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Pilosocereus Gounellei?
A: Pilosocereus Gounellei is suitable for hardiness zones 9b-11.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Pilosocereus Gounellei:
- Pilosocereus Brevicolumnatus
- Pilosocereus Pachycladus
- Pilosocereus Aureispinus
- Pilosocereus Magnificus
References
- “Pilosocereus Gounellei.” World of Succulents, 2021, https://worldofsucculents.com/pilosocereus-gounellei/.
- “Pilosocereus Gounellei.” Cactus Art Nursery, 2021, https://www.cactus-art.biz/schede/PILOSOCEREUS/Pilosocereus_gounellei/Pilosocereus_gounellei/Pilosocereus_gounellei.htm.
