Cactacea - Botanical Family

Epiphyte climbing by abundant aerial roots.

Selenicereus setaceus are simular to Hylocereus-(Dragon Fruit). Selenicereus setaceus is also commonly called Pineapple cactus since this plant is also cultivated like Dragon Fruit in a few areas for the fruit it produces, which can be very sweet but tends to be smaller in size compared to Dragon Fruit species and or hybrids.

Selenicereus is a genus of epiphytic, lithophytic, and terrestrial cacti.

A number of species of Selenicereus produce fruit that is eaten.

Epiphyte climbing by abundant aerial roots.

Stenocereus is a genus of tall, columnar cacti known for their multiple-stemmed, branching form that often resembles organ pipes or tentacles. Native to arid regions of Mexico and Central America, these cacti thrive in full sun and well-drained, rocky soils. They are highly drought-tolerant and well adapted to extreme heat.

Most species grow slowly and reach heights between 6 and 20 feet over time, with upright stems that may occasionally arch outward. The surface of the stems typically has 8 to 12 ribs, each lined with areoles and spines. Some species of Stenocereus, such as S. queretaroensis and S. thurberi, are cultivated for their large, sweet fruits, which are locally known and appreciated. However, the fruits of most species in the genus are technically edible but remain small, grow high on tall stems, and are more often consumed by birds than harvested by people.

Flowering usually occurs in summer, with large funnel-shaped blooms in shades of white, pink, or red, depending on species. The flowers open at night or in the early morning and often attract bats or moths. Many species have thick, waxy epidermis that helps retain moisture in extreme heat.

Stenocereus species can generally tolerate temperatures down to about 25F, though some may suffer damage below 30F. Container growing is possible for young plants, but mature specimens are best suited to open ground in warm, dry climates.

The genus is sometimes confused with Pachycereus due to the similar columnar growth habit, but Stenocereus tends to have thinner stems and a more shrubby base.

Notable species include Stenocereus thurberi, native to the Sonoran Desert, which often forms large clumps and bears sweet, edible fruit known as pitaya dulce. Stenocereus pruinosus is recognizable by its bluish stems and bright pink flowers, with fruits sold in local markets. Stenocereus stellatus is a rarer type with narrow stems and highly decorative flowers.

Strophocactus wittii is a native to South America, creeping epiphyte that grows up tree trunks. The leaf-like stems, called phylloclades, are pressed against these trunks and support aerial roots along their midribs. These plants thrive in full sun to semi-shade positions, and need regular watering. Although the plants produce small leaves with thorns or spines, the blooms are its main draw. White or off-white flowers, measuring around 2 inches across, with notched petal edges, only open for one night - hence its nickname, the Amazon Moonflower!

When grown in its proper hardiness zone (USDA Zone 9-11), Strophocactus wittii can be planted in potting soil that is enriched with organic matter, and well-drained. In the warmer months, water regularly and in the winter, water can be reduced to occasional. For colder regions below USDA Zone 9, Strophocactus wittii can be grown in a pot and brought inside during the colder months. Keep its environment humidity, bright, indirect and/or partial light, and a stable temperature to help it successfully overwinter.

Overall, the Strophocactus wittii is a stunning addition to gardens. With proper care and effort, it may produce lush foliage and fragrant blooms. Its pot will mean regular repotting is required, but the effort is worth it for this majestic species. It can grow to a height of up to 20 ft, depending on how well it is cared for.

Tephrocactus articulatus is a desert cactus native to arid regions of Argentina, where it grows in rocky, highly drained soils under intense sunlight.

What makes Tephrocactus articulatus distinctive?

Tephrocactus articulatus develops a modular structure of rounded stem segments that detach readily, a natural means of clonal propagation in its native habitat. Spination varies across forms: some show stiff white bristles, while the well-known Tephrocactus articulatus var. papyracanthus produces broad, translucent 'paper' spines that create a striking visual texture. Pale cream to yellow flowers may appear in warm seasons when the plant receives high light and very sparing irrigation. The species requires extreme drainage, abundant sun, and long dry intervals, thriving with minimal water and strong heat. In USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 9-11, it performs well outdoors in arid gardens, while in cooler regions it grows successfully in containers that remain dry and protected from frost. Its segmented architecture and distinctive spine variations make Tephrocactus articulatus a notable choice for collectors and for minimalist or rocky xeric plantings.