Trichocereus bridgesii f. Monstruosa – Penis Cactus

Trichocereus bridgesii f. Monstruosa  – Penis Cactus

You will receive this exact specimen.
Measures  9.5" tall above the soil line.
Roots as shown.
Will be shipped bare root.

Trichocereus bridgesii f. monstruosa (often abbreviated as TBM) is a rare, mutated cultivar of the Bolivian Torch cactus. It is widely known in the collector community as the "Penis Cactus" due to its unique, phallic growth pattern characterized by smooth, irregular, and knobby stem segments. Unlike the standard columnar T. bridgesii, this form lacks regular symmetry and often produces very few spines, primarily located at the base of new segments.

APPEARANCES and CHARACTERISTICS

There are two main recognized clones of this monstrose form, each with distinct growth habits: 

• Clone A (Long Form): Grows more vertically and produces fewer offsets. The segments are longer and can eventually reach several feet in height if grown in the ground.
• Clone B (Short Form): The more common "penis plant" variety. It is much more compact, branching profusely at the base to form dense clusters of short, sausage-like segments.
• Crested Form (TBMC): A rarer mutation where the plant grows in fan-like or shell-like "crests" rather than individual segments.

CARE and GROWING CONDITIONS

TBM is considered a low-maintenance cactus but is more sensitive to moisture than its non-mutated counterparts. 

• Light: Requires full sun to bright, indirect light. If grown indoors, a south- or west-facing window is ideal. In extreme summer heat, light shade can prevent stem scorch.
• Watering: Use the "soak and dry" method. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering deeply. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent rot.
• Soil: Must be planted in a fast-draining cactus mix. A ratio of roughly 70% inorganic material (pumice, perlite, or grit) to 30% organic material is recommended to ensure high aeration.
• Temperature: Prefers warm temperatures. While it can tolerate brief chills, it should be protected from hard frost and kept above for safety.
• Common Issues: It is highly susceptible to fungal humidity spots (black spots) if overwatered or kept in high humidity. These usually self-heal into scars as the plant grows.