Contents
Description
Stenocereus Queretaroensis, also known as the pitayo de Queretaro, is a cactus species native to Mexico. It belongs to the Cactaceae family and is a slow-growing tree-like cactus that can reach up to 6 meters in height. The trunk is cylindrical and can have a diameter of up to 15 cm. The plant produces white flowers that bloom at night and red or yellow fruits that are edible and used in local cuisine.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Stenocereus |
| Species: | Stenocereus Queretaroensis |
Appearance
Stenocereus Queretaroensis has a unique appearance compared to other cactus species. The stem is green, cylindrical, and covered with small spines. The plant has several branches that emerge from the main stem, and each branch can produce smaller branches. The branches are cylindrical, and their surface is covered with small conical protuberances. The plant produces white flowers that bloom at night and are up to 5 cm long. The fruits are round or oval, red or yellow and covered with small spines.
Care Guide
Stenocereus Queretaroensis is a slow-growing cactus that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
Water: Water the plant once a week during the growing season and once a month during the dormant season. Allow the soil to dry out before watering again.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a cactus-specific fertilizer.
Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix for cactus and succulents.
Sunlight: Place the plant in a location with full sun exposure.
Hardiness Zones: Stenocereus Queretaroensis can tolerate temperatures down to 25°F (-4°C) and is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b.
Common Pests & Diseases
Stenocereus Queretaroensis is susceptible to pests and diseases common to cactus plants, such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. To prevent pests and diseases, inspect the plant regularly and treat any infestations promptly.
Habitat
Stenocereus Queretaroensis is native to Mexico and grows in arid regions with rocky soil. The plant is found in the states of Queretaro, Hidalgo, San Luis Potosi, and Guanajuato. It grows in elevations between 1000 to 2000 meters above sea level.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Stenocereus Queretaroensis a good indoor plant?
A: Stenocereus Queretaroensis can be grown indoors if placed in a location with full sun exposure.
Q: How often should I fertilize Stenocereus Queretaroensis?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a cactus-specific fertilizer.
Q: How often should I water Stenocereus Queretaroensis?
A: Water the plant once a week during the growing season and once a month during the dormant season. Allow the soil to dry out before watering again.
Q: Is Stenocereus Queretaroensis suitable for outdoor landscaping?
A: Stenocereus Queretaroensis can be used in outdoor landscaping in areas with full sun exposure and arid soil.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Stenocereus Queretaroensis:
- Stenocereus alamosensis
- Stenocereus eruca
- Stenocereus fimbriatus
- Stenocereus griseus
References
- “Stenocereus Queretaroensis.” Cactus Art Nursery. Accessed on August 30, 2021. http://www.cactus-art.biz/schede/STENOCEREUS/Stenocereus_queretaroensis/Stenocereus_queretaroensis/stenocereus_queretaroensis.htm
- “Stenocereus Queretaroensis.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. Accessed on August 30, 2021. http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=269246
- “Stenocereus Queretaroensis.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed on August 30, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=STQU4
