The Myrtillocactus geometrizans monstrose, also known as Blue Myrtle Cactus or Crested Blue Myrtle, is a highly sought-after succulent. Its distinctive, irregular growth pattern sets it apart from typical cacti, making it a captivating addition to any plant collection. This unique cactus offers significant ornamental value with its unusual form and often glaucous blue-green skin, providing an artistic and architectural element to indoor or outdoor garden spaces. This article explores its characteristics and care requirements.
Understanding Myrtillocactus Geometrizans Monstrose
The term “monstrose” refers to an abnormal growth characteristic, often called fasciation, resulting from a genetic mutation or cellular division irregularities. Instead of a typical columnar stem, this cactus exhibits a convoluted, lumpy, or crested form with multiple growing points emerging in unpredictable patterns. This creates a unique, sculptural appearance. The stems often have a glaucous blue-gray to greenish hue, sometimes developing a light coating that can fade with age.
This cactus originates from northern central Mexico, extending south to Oaxaca, where it naturally grows as a highly branched, candelabra-shaped tree. In its natural habitat, the species can reach heights of up to 15 feet (4.5 meters) with a crown spanning up to 16 feet (5 meters). The monstrose form grows slower than the standard Myrtillocactus geometrizans. While the typical species is known for fast growth, the monstrose cultivar’s growth is more restrained, making it suitable for container cultivation.
Myrtillocactus Geometrizans Monstrose Care
Light
Myrtillocactus geometrizans monstrose thrives in bright, direct sunlight for most of the day. At least six hours of direct sun daily encourages robust growth and maintains its characteristic blue coloration. Mature plants tolerate full sun, but young plants or recent cuttings need gradual acclimation to prevent sunburn. Insufficient light causes etiolation, where the cactus stretches and becomes pale, compromising its compact, monstrose form.
Sunburn appears as yellowing or browning patches, indicating light intensity is too harsh without proper acclimatization. Afternoon shade during the hottest summer parts, especially in extremely hot climates, protects the plant from scorching. A consistently bright environment ensures strong, healthy stems and retains its appealing aesthetic.
Soil and Potting
Correct soil is important for Myrtillocactus geometrizans monstrose health, as it requires a well-draining medium to prevent root rot. A specialized cactus or succulent potting mix, composed of perlite, pumice, coarse sand, and a small amount of organic matter, provides necessary drainage and aeration. Regular potting soil retains too much moisture, which is detrimental to cacti. Repotting should occur during the active growing season, in spring or summer, only when the plant has outgrown its current container.
Pots with drainage holes are essential to allow excess water to escape, preventing waterlogged conditions. Terracotta pots are preferred due to their porous nature, allowing soil to dry more quickly than plastic or glazed containers. Choose a pot size only slightly larger than the plant’s root ball, as too much soil can hold excessive moisture, increasing fungal risk.
Watering
Proper watering involves a “soak and dry” method, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. During the active growing season (spring through early fall), water thoroughly until water drains from the pot bottom. Watering frequency depends on environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and pot size; warmer, drier conditions necessitate more frequent watering.
As temperatures cool in late fall and winter, the cactus enters dormancy, requiring significantly reduced or no watering. Overwatering commonly causes issues like root rot, which can quickly lead to plant decline. It is safer to underwater than overwater, as cacti are resilient to drought.
Temperature and Humidity
Myrtillocactus geometrizans monstrose prefers warm temperatures and tolerates significant heat, reflecting its desert origins. Ideal growing temperatures range from 70°F to 100°F (21°C to 38°C) during active growth. While it withstands short periods down to 25°F (-4°C), it is best kept above freezing to prevent damage. Protecting the plant from frost is important, especially for younger specimens, as prolonged cold exposure can be fatal.
This cactus thrives in dry conditions and does not require high humidity. Its arid natural habitat means typical indoor humidity levels are suitable. High humidity combined with cool temperatures increases fungal disease risk, particularly if soil remains damp. Good air circulation is beneficial, especially in humid environments, to prevent moisture-related problems.
Fertilizing
Fertilize Myrtillocactus geometrizans monstrose sparingly, only during its active growing season (spring to late summer). A balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer formulated for cacti and succulents is recommended. Diluting the fertilizer to half or quarter strength avoids over-fertilization, which can harm roots and lead to leggy growth.
Apply fertilizer once every two to four weeks during the growing season. Refrain from fertilizing during dormant winter months, as the plant is not actively growing and cannot properly utilize nutrients. Over-fertilizing can lead to salt buildup in the soil, potentially causing root burn or other nutrient imbalances.
Propagating Myrtillocactus Geometrizans Monstrose
Propagate Myrtillocactus geometrizans monstrose primarily through stem cuttings, a reliable method for replicating its unique form. The best time to take cuttings is during the active growing season (spring or early summer), when the plant is most vigorous. Select a healthy segment of the monstrose growth, using a clean, sharp knife or sterile shears. Pieces a few inches long with distinct monstrose features are suitable.
After taking the cutting, allow it to callus (dry and form a protective seal) at the cut end. This process takes a few days to two weeks, depending on cutting size and environmental humidity. Place the cutting in a dry, airy location away from direct sunlight for proper callusing. Once callused, plant it in a well-draining cactus mix, ensuring the callused end is buried an inch or two deep. Avoid watering for the first week or two to allow roots to develop, then begin light watering, gradually increasing as the cutting establishes.
Common Problems and Troubleshooting
Myrtillocactus geometrizans monstrose can encounter common issues, often linked to improper care. Pests like mealybugs and scale insects may infest the cactus, appearing as small, cottony masses or raised bumps on stems. Regular inspection helps with early detection; pests can be removed manually with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or by applying insecticidal soap.
Fungal diseases, particularly root rot, are prevalent and usually result from overwatering or poorly draining soil. Symptoms include a mushy base, discoloration, and a foul odor. Prevent root rot by adhering to a “soak and dry” watering schedule and ensuring the plant is in a highly porous potting mix with adequate drainage. Stem rot can also occur if moisture sits on the plant’s surface or if it is damaged. Environmental issues like etiolation manifest as stretched, pale growth due to insufficient light, while sunburn appears as discolored or scorched patches from excessive, unacclimated sun exposure. Adjusting light conditions prevents these aesthetic and health problems.