Cereus forbesii
Cereus forbesii
Spiraled Cereus
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Common Names
Spiraled CereusTwisted Cereus
Context
nativeRegion
South America (Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay).
usdaZones
9b–11
companionPlants
Echinopsis, Opuntia, Aloe, Agave
culturalUses
Ornamental use; sometimes grown for distinctive blue-green coloration and impressive flowers.
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun to partial shade. Prefers bright, direct sunlight for most of the day.
WateringLow. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry out completely between waterings.
SoilWell-draining sandy or cactus soil mix. Avoid water-retentive substrates.
FertilizerUse a diluted, balanced cactus fertilizer once monthly during active growth (spring and summer).
HumidityLow humidity preferred; typical indoor levels are adequate.
TemperatureWarm temperatures (18–32°C / 65–90°F); protect from frost and temperatures below 5°C (41°F).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitColumnar, upright cactus with ribbed bluish-green stems and occasional branching; can form clumps over time.
Mature SizeUp to 2–4 m (6–13 ft) outdoors; smaller in pots.
Growth RateModerate growing for a cactus, particularly with regular warmth and sun.
BloomingProduces large, white nocturnal flowers typically in summer; fruits may follow if pollinated.
DormancyDormant in winter with reduced watering and no feeding.
Propagation
MethodsSeed, Stem cuttings
DifficultyEasy to moderate; cuttings root readily if allowed to callous before planting.
Best SeasonSpring to early summer.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningMinimal—remove damaged or diseased stems as needed.
RepottingEvery 2–3 years, best in spring as plant outgrows its pot.
Pests & DiseasesMay be susceptible to mealybugs, scale, spider mites, and root rot if overwatered.
ToxicityGenerally non-toxic to humans and pets, but spines may cause injury.
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