Myrtillocactus geometrizans

Booby Cactus

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Taxonomy

Common Names

Booby CactusTitty CactusBlue Myrtle Cactus'Fukurokuryuzinboku'

Context

nativeRegion

Central and northern Mexico.

usdaZones

9–11 (can tolerate mild frost briefly, but prefers frost-free environments).

companionPlants

Opuntia spp., Agave spp., Echinocereus spp., Ferocactus spp.

culturalUses

Traditional source of edible fruit ('garambullo') used fresh or in preserves; ornamental value in xeriscaping and cactus gardens.

Care

LightFull sun to partial shade; thrives in bright, direct sunlight.

WateringWater deeply but infrequently during the growing season; allow soil to dry out between waterings. Minimal watering needed in winter.

SoilWell-draining cactus or succulent mix; prefers sandy or rocky soil with good drainage.

FertilizerFertilize lightly with diluted cactus fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer), once a month.

HumidityTolerates low humidity; prefers arid to semi-arid conditions.

TemperaturePrefers warm temperatures (20–30°C/68–86°F); protect from frost, not frost tolerant.

HabitUpright, candelabra-like cactus with blue-green stems; forms large clumps over time.

Mature SizeUp to 4.5 meters (15 feet) tall and about 2–3 meters (6–10 feet) wide in ideal outdoor conditions, smaller indoors.

Growth RateModerate to fast grower for a cactus, especially with sufficient light and heat.

BloomingSmall, white to greenish flowers appear in late spring to summer, followed by edible blue berries.

DormancyDormant in winter; growth slows significantly and watering should be reduced.

MethodsStem cuttings, Seeds

DifficultyEasy from cuttings, moderate from seeds.

Best SeasonSpring or early summer for cuttings; seeds can be sown in warm months.

PruningMinimal; remove damaged or diseased stems as needed.

RepottingEvery 2–3 years or when pot bound, preferably in spring.

Pests & DiseasesGenerally resistant; watch for mealybugs, scale, root rot in poorly drained soil.

ToxicityNon-toxic to humans and pets; fruits are edible.

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