The Bobbie Cactus (Myrtillocactus geometrizans ‘Fukurokuryuzinboku’) is a distinctive houseplant. Its unusual sculptural form adds a unique element to any collection, making it a popular choice for plant enthusiasts. This rare cultivar offers a captivating and intriguing appearance. Its ease of care makes it a rewarding plant.
Identifying the Bobbie Cactus
The Bobbie Cactus is identified by its striking columnar growth habit and blue-green stems. These stems feature rounded protrusions or ribs that give the plant its characteristic “breast-like” appearance. Young specimens grow upright, and older cacti may develop multiple branches. Each protrusion is adorned with small, rigid spines, adding to its unique texture.
Bobbie Cactus Care Guide
Light
The Bobbie Cactus thrives in bright, indirect light. Positioning it near a south or west-facing window is ideal, providing ample light without excessive direct sun exposure that can lead to scorching. If natural light is insufficient, supplemental grow lights can provide necessary illumination for healthy growth. Gradual acclimation to brighter conditions helps prevent stress and maintains the plant’s vibrant coloration.
Watering
Watering a Bobbie Cactus requires a “soak and dry” approach, allowing the soil to become completely dry between waterings. This plant stores moisture within its thick stems, indicating a high tolerance for drought. During the active growing season (spring to fall), watering every two to four weeks is often sufficient. In winter, as the plant enters dormancy, significantly reduce watering frequency, potentially to once a month or less.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining soil mix is essential for the Bobbie Cactus to prevent waterlogging and promote root health. A specialized cactus or succulent potting mix blended with coarse sand, perlite, or pumice provides necessary aeration and drainage. When selecting a pot, choose one with drainage holes to allow excess water to escape freely. Repotting should only occur when the plant has outgrown its current container, typically every two to three years, and is best done during the active growing season using dry soil.
Temperature and Humidity
The Bobbie Cactus prefers warm temperatures, ideally ranging between 60°F and 85°F (15-30°C). It is not tolerant of cold temperatures and should be protected from frost, as temperatures consistently below 50°F (10°C) can cause harm. As a desert native, this cactus is well-adapted to dry air and does not require high humidity. Moderate humidity, around 30-40%, is suitable, and excessive moisture can contribute to fungal problems.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing the Bobbie Cactus supports healthy development. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer specifically formulated for cacti and succulents. During the active growing season (spring through summer), apply the fertilizer every two to four weeks, diluted to half the recommended strength. Avoid fertilizing during fall and winter months when the plant’s growth naturally slows or it enters dormancy.
Propagating Bobbie Cactus
Propagating the Bobbie Cactus is primarily achieved through stem cuttings, as propagating from seed will not reliably produce its unique form. Select a healthy stem segment and make a clean cut. Allow the cut end to dry and form a callus over several days or up to a week; this process is important to prevent rot once the cutting is planted.
Once callused, plant the cutting into a pot filled with a well-draining cactus mix, burying it just enough to provide stability. Avoid deep planting, as the goal is to encourage root development from the base. Place the potted cutting in a warm location with bright, indirect light. Water sparingly, only providing light moisture to the soil surface, until new roots begin to form, which can take several weeks to months.
Common Bobbie Cactus Problems
Pests
The Bobbie Cactus can encounter common houseplant pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Mealybugs appear as small, cottony masses, spider mites may create fine webbing, and scale insects resemble small, hard bumps on the plant’s surface. Inspect plants regularly to detect infestations early, and treat affected areas with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or a diluted alcohol solution applied with a cotton swab.
Diseases
Root rot is the most common disease affecting Bobbie Cacti, primarily resulting from overwatering or poorly draining soil. Symptoms include yellowing of the stems and mushy spots. If root rot is suspected, unpot the cactus and inspect the roots, trimming away any soft, discolored, or foul-smelling sections with sterilized tools. Allow the trimmed roots to air dry for a day or two before repotting in fresh, dry, well-draining soil.
Environmental Stress
Environmental stressors can affect the Bobbie Cactus’s appearance and health. Etiolation, characterized by stretched, pale growth, occurs when the plant does not receive enough light. Sunburn, appearing as bleached or scorched patches, results from sudden exposure to intense direct sunlight. If the cactus begins to shrivel, it indicates underwatering. Adjusting light exposure, providing adequate water, and ensuring proper air circulation can correct these issues.