Contents
Description
Stenocereus Montanus, commonly known as the Mexican Pitaya or Pitaya de Queretaro, is a cactus species that belongs to the Cactaceae family. It is native to Mexico and can be found in the states of Hidalgo, Guanajuato, Queretaro, San Luis Potosi, and Tamaulipas. This columnar cactus can grow up to 10 meters in height and has a diameter of 10-15 centimeters. Its stem is green, and its branches grow at a right angle, making the plant look like a cross.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Stenocereus |
Appearance
The Stenocereus Montanus has a unique appearance. Its stem is cylindrical and has a diameter of 10-15 centimeters. Its branches grow at a right angle, making it look like a cross. The green stem has 7-10 ribs and numerous areoles with spines. The spines are 2-3 centimeters in length, and their color ranges from yellow to brown. The flowers of this cactus are white and bloom at night. They are 5-6 centimeters in diameter and have numerous stamens. The fruit of Stenocereus Montanus is edible and has a sweet and sour taste.
Care Guide
To take care of Stenocereus Montanus, you should follow the care guide below:Water: Water the plant once a week during the growing season and once a month during the dormant season. Make sure the soil is dry before watering.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a cactus fertilizer.Soil: Use well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging. The pH of the soil should be between 6.0 and 7.5.Sunlight: Place the plant in full sun or partial shade. It can tolerate high temperatures, but it is sensitive to frost.Hardiness Zones: Stenocereus Montanus can grow in hardiness zones 9b-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Stenocereus Montanus is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, scale insects, and fungal diseases. To prevent these pests and diseases, make sure the plant is not overwatered and has good air circulation. If you notice any signs of infestation or disease, treat the plant with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide.
Habitat
The Stenocereus Montanus is native to Mexico and can be found in the states of Hidalgo, Guanajuato, Queretaro, San Luis Potosi, and Tamaulipas. It grows in arid and semiarid regions and can be found on rocky slopes, hills, and canyons.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Stenocereus Montanus a fast-growing cactus?
A: No, Stenocereus Montanus is a slow-growing cactus.Q: Can Stenocereus Montanus be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Stenocereus Montanus can be grown indoors if it is placed in a sunny spot.Q: How often should I fertilize Stenocereus Montanus?
A: You should fertilize Stenocereus Montanus once a month during the growing season.Q: Is Stenocereus Montanus drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, Stenocereus Montanus is drought-tolerant.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Stenocereus Montanus:- Stenocereus Pruinosus- Stenocereus Thurberi- Stenocereus Marginatus- Stenocereus Alamosensis
References
– “Stenocereus montanus.” Cactus Art Nursery. Accessed 15 June 2021. https://cactus-art.biz/schede/STENOCEREUS/Stenocereus_montanus/Stenocereus_montanus/Stenocereus_montanus.htm- “Stenocereus montanus.” World of Succulents. Accessed 15 June 2021. https://worldofsucculents.com/stenocereus-montanus-mexican-pitaya-pitaya-de-queretaro/
