Myrtillocactus geometrizans (Mart.) Console - Μυρτιλλόκακτος
Συνώνυμα: Cereus geometrizans Mart. ex Pfeiff., Cereus pugioniferus Lem.
Οικογένεια: Cactaceae
Διάμετρος γλάστρας:5.5εκ., Ύψος:5-8εκ.
English
It is a cactacea which, without reaching exponential dimensions, manages to amaze even the less experienced eyes with its truly unique appearance.
The name refers to small bluish fruits, similar to blueberries in both appearance and taste (in fact, in the areas of its origin they are used for food). These bluish-green columnar plants are slightly spiny, completely covered by a superficial waxy veil, called pruina (hence the common name of "blue candle", a characteristic that makes them easily recognizable and unique).
Their white bell-shaped flowers enrich these particular cacti not only in summer, but sometimes the plant blooms even a couple of times a year.
The crested form of the Myrtillocactus is even more appreciated by green collectors, as long as in nature the plant creates this form spontaneously: the plant has fan-shaped crests, often branched, which give a sculptural look difficult to repeat; you will never find two identical plants!
Excellent for decorating the most disparate interiors, thanks to the very simple cultivation and rather rapid growth.
Its unique habit is often understood, in the vegetable language, as a symbol of originality, therefore perfect for giving an overwhelming touch to every corner of your house with its natural appearance, which at the same time is so flawless, that it looks like an artificially created sculpture!
Myrtillocactus geometrizans is also called as "Our Father", "Blue Flame", "Bilberry Cactus", "Whortleberry Cactus", "Blue Candle" and "Blue Myrtle cactus".
It is a columnar plant, covered with a white glaze, which can branch out and take the shape of a candlestick.
In nature it can reach up to 4 meters in height. Its blue-sky stem is made of 5-8 ribs and sparse spines.
It blooms from February to April, its flowers are white and small.
A curious fact: the fruits of Myrtillocactus are edible and resemble blueberries, from this characteristic, in fact, derives its name.
Care
- It likes an exposure to full sun in rather airy locations.
- It is preferable to keep it at mild temperatures and never below 10 °C, for this reason it is recommended to shelter it during the winter period.
- Water moderately and only when the soil is completely dry. It is enough to water it once a week in spring and summer, and reduce watering to once every two months in autumn and winter.
- The best soil is a well-draining one, even better if further enriched with inert materials such as pumice, sand or lapilli.
- They do not need frequent fertilization, it is sufficient to dilute the fertilizer with watering once a year.
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