Quiabentia zehntneri (Quiabento)

Pereskia zehntneri, now botanically classified as Quiabentia zehntneri, is a rare and unusual leafy cactus native to the dry caatinga regions of Bahia and Minas Gerais, Brazil. Unlike the familiar image of a cactus, this species grows as a branching shrub or small tree, eventually reaching about 10 ft tall, with a central woody trunk and thick, succulent green leaves growing along distinctly spiny cactus stems.

The combination of true leaves and cactus-like stems gives this plant a wonderfully prehistoric appearance. Mature plants produce large, showy pink to reddish-pink flowers, about 3 inches across, near the tips of the branches. Another interesting feature is its natural method of propagation: branches detach surprisingly easily, fall to the ground, and can root to form new plants.

In its native habitat, Quiabentia zehntneri grows among hot, dry limestone outcrops, making it well adapted to heat and periods of drought. Give it plenty of light, excellent drainage, and avoid constantly wet soil. A fascinating specimen for cactus and succulent collectors, especially those looking for something genuinely different from the usual desert cactus.