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Description
Stenocereus Thurberi is a species of cactus that belongs to the Cactaceae family. It is also known as Organ Pipe Cactus or pitahaya dulce in Spanish. This plant is native to the Sonoran Desert in Mexico and the United States, specifically in Baja California, Sonora, and Arizona.This cactus can grow up to 6 meters tall and 12 inches in diameter. Its stem is columnar and ribbed with a greenish-gray color. It has small spines and white flowers that bloom at night and turn into red or purple fruits.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus | |——–|———|——–|——-|——-|——–|——-|| Eukarya|Plantae|Tracheophyta|Magnoliopsida|Caryophyllales| Cactaceae|Stenocereus|
Appearance
Stenocereus Thurberi has a unique appearance that makes it stand out from other cacti. Its stem is tall and columnar, with vertical ribs running along its length. The stem has a greenish-gray color and is covered in small spines that can grow up to 2 cm long.This cactus blooms at night, producing large white flowers that open up to 8 cm in diameter. The flowers are followed by red or purple fruits that are sweet and edible.
Care Guide
Stenocereus Thurberi is an easy-to-care-for cactus, making it a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor gardening. Here are some care tips to keep in mind:- Water: This cactus needs little water, especially during the winter months. Water it only when the soil is completely dry.- Fertilization: Fertilize with a cactus-specific fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: Use well-draining soil, such as a cactus potting mix.- Sunlight: This cactus likes bright, direct sunlight, so make sure it is placed in a sunny location.- Hardiness Zones: Stenocereus Thurberi can survive in USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b.
Common Pests & Diseases
Stenocereus Thurberi is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but just like any other plant, it is still susceptible to some issues. Here are some common pests and diseases that can affect this cactus:- Mealybugs: These small, white insects feed on the plant’s sap, causing it to weaken and die. They can be removed by wiping them off with a damp cloth or using a pesticide.- Root rot: Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, leading to wilting and eventual death of the plant. To prevent root rot, make sure to water only when the soil is completely dry.- Scale insects: These insects attach themselves to the plant and suck out the sap, causing yellowing and wilting. They can be removed with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Habitat
Stenocereus Thurberi is native to the Sonoran Desert, where it grows in rocky and sandy soils. It can also be found in Mexico and the United States, specifically in Baja California, Sonora, and Arizona. This cactus can tolerate high temperatures and drought, making it well-suited for desert habitats.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Stenocereus Thurberi?
A: Water this cactus only when the soil is completely dry.Q: Can I eat the fruits of Stenocereus Thurberi?
A: Yes, the fruits are sweet and edible.Q: Is Stenocereus Thurberi resistant to pests and diseases?
A: While it is generally resistant, it can still be affected by mealybugs, root rot, and scale insects.Q: What kind of soil should I use for Stenocereus Thurberi?
A: Use a well-draining cactus potting mix.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Stenocereus Thurberi:- Stenocereus marginatus- Stenocereus fimbriatus- Stenocereus pruinosus- Stenocereus queretaroensis
References
– “Stenocereus Thurberi.” World of Succulents, Accessed 4 Nov. 2021, www.worldofsucculents.com/cactus-and-succulent-identification-archive/stenocereus-thurberi/.- “Organ Pipe Cactus.” Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Accessed 4 Nov. 2021, www.desertmuseum.org/kids/oz/long-fact-sheets/Organ%20Pipe%20Cactus.php.
