Lemaireocereus pruinosus variegata

Lemaireocereus pruinosus variegata – 20” Tall

You will receive this exact, BIG specimen.
Measures 20" tall!
Showcased here in one-of-a-kind handmade pottery (sold separately).
Roots as shown.
Will be shipped bare root.

Characteristics:

• Columnar Cactus: This species features a tall, columnar growth habit, reaching significant heights in nature, up to 7 meters (23 feet) in the wild. In cultivation, it typically grows to around 10 feet tall and 4 feet wide.
• Variegation: The variegated form is prized for its beautiful stems exhibiting yellow and grey-green stripes or patches where chlorophyll is absent. These patterns are unique to each plant, making them highly sought after by collectors.
• Stems and Ribs: The stems are generally grey-green, but juvenile plants may have a glaucous-gray color. They have prominent ribs (4-6, sometimes more) separated by wide intervals and featuring wavy margins.
• Spines: Each areole (the small bumps along the ribs) has a few short, straight, brownish-gray spines.
• Flowers and Fruit: Mature specimens produce white to pale pink, funnel-shaped flowers, typically blooming in May and October, which is why it's also known as "pitayo de Mayo" and "pitayo de Octubre". These flowers are followed by edible, ovoid fruits, approximately 5-8 cm long and turning yellow, orange, green, or purple when ripe. 

Cultivation:

• Light: Requires very bright light, preferably direct sunlight. If grown indoors, a south-facing window is recommended, placed less than 1ft away.
• Watering: Drought-tolerant, requires moderate watering during the summer growing season. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. In winter, significantly reduce watering, keeping the plant as dry as possible.
• Soil: Use a well-draining, mineral-based substrate suitable for cacti. A standard cactus mix works well.
• Temperature: Prefers warm temperatures and is sensitive to cold. It can tolerate temperatures down to 10-12°C (50-54°F), and some sources say down to -2°C (28°F) if kept completely dry. It's best to bring potted plants indoors in areas with harsh winters.
• Fertilization: Feed with a high-potassium, low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer about once a month during spring and summer.
• Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant has doubled in size. Choose deep pots to accommodate the roots.
• Propagation: Can be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or offsets. Due to the variegation, propagation via vegetative methods (cuttings, grafting) is important to maintain the variegated pattern. Grafting is a common method, using a healthy green stock to support the variegated scion. 

Other Interesting Facts:

• Synonymy: It is sometimes considered synonymous with Stenocereus pruinosus.
• Native Habitat: Native to arid regions of Mexico.
• Common Names: Known as Blue Torch Cactus, Grey Ghost Organ Pipe, or by its blooming season names, "pitayo de Mayo" and "pitayo de Octubre".
• Conservation Status: Currently not listed as threatened or endangered.