The “penis cactus” is a unique succulent, known for its distinctive, phallic-like appearance. Its unusual form makes it a fascinating addition to any plant collection, captivating many garden enthusiasts.
Understanding the Penis Cactus
This plant’s common name comes from its unique, irregular morphology, as its lumpy, cylindrical stems resemble male genitalia. Officially known as Trichocereus bridgesii f. monstrose, or Echinopsis lageniformis f. monstrosa, its characteristic shape results from a natural genetic mutation, classifying it as a “monstrose” form. While the standard Trichocereus bridgesii is native to Bolivia’s high deserts, the “penis cactus” is a nursery-produced cultivar. Its stems appear light glaucous green with sparsely distributed areoles, from which small, tan to yellowish spines can emerge, though upper parts are often smooth. This slow-growing cactus can reach up to 6 feet tall outdoors over many years, but usually remains more compact in containers.
Essential Care for Penis Cactus
The penis cactus thrives with ample light, which helps maintain its unique shape. It prefers bright, direct sunlight, ideally receiving at least six to eight hours daily. Indoors, a south or west-facing window is often suitable, but supplementary grow lights can be beneficial if natural light is insufficient. When moving the plant outdoors or into more intense sun, gradually acclimate it to prevent sunburn, which appears as yellow or brown patches.
Water with caution; this cactus is highly drought-tolerant. Allow the soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot. During its active growing season in spring and summer, watering every 10 to 14 days may be appropriate. Reduce frequency to once a month or less in fall and winter when the plant is dormant. When watering, ensure water drains freely from the pot’s bottom.
A well-draining, gritty cactus or succulent mix is recommended. Amend it with coarse sand, pumice, or perlite for enhanced drainage. A mixture of approximately 70% inorganic materials and 30% organic materials provides optimal drainage. Avoid regular garden soil, as it retains too much moisture.
The penis cactus prefers warm, dry conditions, ideally 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 29°C) indoors. It tolerates low humidity, suiting typical indoor environments. Protect the plant from frost; prolonged exposure to temperatures below 30°F to 40°F (-1°C to 4°C) can cause damage.
During the active growing season in spring and summer, apply a diluted cactus-specific fertilizer or a low-nitrogen NPK blend monthly or every 4 to 6 weeks. Discontinue fertilizing during fall and winter dormancy to prevent issues.
Propagating Penis Cactus
Propagate the penis cactus through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem segment and make a clean cut at a node using a sterilized tool. Leave areoles, the small bumps where spines emerge, on the mother plant to encourage new offsets.
After taking the cutting, allow the severed end to dry and form a callus, which can take several days to a few weeks depending on humidity and size. This callusing prevents rot when planted. Once a dry, rough surface has formed, plant the callused end into a pot filled with well-draining cactus mix.
Do not water the newly planted cutting immediately. Instead, wait another week or until roots begin to develop before light watering. Place the pot in a bright spot with indirect sunlight and warm temperatures to encourage faster root growth. The warmer seasons, when the plant is actively growing, are the best time for propagation.
Common Challenges with Penis Cactus
The penis cactus can encounter a few common challenges. Pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects may occasionally infest the plant. Mealybugs, appearing as white, cotton-like masses, can be removed with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Spider mites, indicated by fine webbing, can be deterred by increasing humidity or using insecticidal soaps.
Fungal infections and rot often result from overwatering or inadequate drainage. Symptoms include mushy stems, dark splotches, or discolored patches. Ensure the soil dries completely between waterings, provide good airflow, and use well-draining soil as preventative measures. If rot is detected, remove affected parts and allow the plant to dry before repotting into fresh soil.
Growth issues can also arise from improper care. Etiolation, characterized by stretched or stunted growth, indicates insufficient light and can be corrected by moving the plant to a brighter location or supplementing with a grow light. Sunburn, appearing as yellow or brown discoloration, occurs when the plant is exposed to too much intense, direct sunlight too quickly. Gradually acclimate the cactus to new light conditions to prevent this damage.
Acquiring a Penis Cactus
Several avenues are available for acquiring a penis cactus. Specialty nurseries often carry this unique plant, appealing to collectors. Online vendors also sell the cactus, but choose reputable sellers to ensure plant health and accurate identification.
Plant shows and local succulent or cactus societies are also sources, sometimes offering cuttings or established plants directly from growers. Since this is a nursery-produced cultivar, it is widely available through horticultural channels. Always prioritize ethical sourcing and purchase from vendors who demonstrate good plant care practices.