Crested Blue Candle Cactus: The Mesmerizing Beauty of the Desert

Oleh Courtney Schamberger June 07, 2023 Post a Comment

Cacti are some of the most intriguing plants in the world, with their unique shapes and resilience in harsh environments. One of the most alluring types of cacti is the crested blue candle cactus. Its stunning blue-green color, coupled with its unusual form, makes it a favorite among plant lovers. In this article, we will explore the origins, characteristics, and care of the crested blue candle cactus.

The crested blue candle cactus, also known as Myrtillocactus geometrizans cv. 'Fukurokuryuzinboku,' is native to Mexico and can grow up to 30 feet tall. It gets its name from its long, candle-like shape and its blue-green color. This cactus has a unique form that is created when the growing tip becomes distorted, resulting in a crest or fan-shaped growth pattern instead of the typical cylindrical shape.

The cresting phenomenon occurs due to genetic mutations, environmental stress, or physical damage to the plant's growing tip. The crested blue candle cactus is a slow-growing plant that can take years to reach its full size. However, its striking appearance makes it worth the wait.

Let's dive into the details of this fascinating plant.

Origins

As mentioned earlier, the crested blue candle cactus is native to Mexico, where it thrives in hot, arid climates. It belongs to the family Cactaceae and is a cultivar of the species Myrtillocactus geometrizans. The plant was first discovered in the late 1800s and has since become a popular ornamental plant around the world.

Characteristics

Size and Shape

The crested blue candle cactus can grow up to 30 feet tall, but it typically stays much smaller in cultivation. Its shape is what makes it stand out from other cacti. The cresting phenomenon causes the plant to grow in a fan-like or wavy pattern instead of a cylindrical shape.

Color

The crested blue candle cactus gets its name from its blue-green color. The color varies depending on the amount of sunlight and water the plant receives. In full sun, the plant may turn more blue, while in partial shade, it may take on a greener hue.

Spines

Like most cacti, the crested blue candle cactus has spines. However, the spines on this plant are relatively small and inconspicuous. They are usually white or yellow and are located along the ridges of the plant.

Flowers and Fruit

The crested blue candle cactus produces small, green flowers that bloom in the summer months. The flowers are followed by red or purple fruit that is edible but not particularly tasty.

Care

Light

The crested blue candle cactus prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can cause the plant to burn. If you notice the plant turning brown or black, it may be getting too much sun.

Water

The crested blue candle cactus is drought-tolerant and can go long periods without water. However, it still needs some moisture to survive. When watering, make sure to let the soil dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.

Soil

The crested blue candle cactus prefers well-draining soil. You can use a cactus or succulent mix, or create your own by mixing sand, perlite, and potting soil.

Temperature

The crested blue candle cactus thrives in warm temperatures and can tolerate some cold, but not frost. It is best to keep the plant in a warm, sunny location.

Fertilizer

The crested blue candle cactus does not require much fertilizer. You can use a cactus fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) to give the plant a boost.

Propagation

The crested blue candle cactus can be propagated through stem cuttings. Take a cutting from the crest of the plant and let it dry out for a few days. Once it has calloused over, plant it in well-draining soil and water sparingly until it roots.

Common Problems

Pests

The crested blue candle cactus is relatively pest-free. However, it can attract mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. If you notice any of these pests on your plant, wipe them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.

Root Rot

Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Make sure to let the soil dry out completely between waterings to avoid this problem.

Sunburn

Too much direct sunlight can cause the crested blue candle cactus to burn. If you notice brown or black spots on the plant, move it to a more shaded location.

The crested blue candle cactus is a mesmerizing plant that adds a unique touch to any collection. Its striking blue-green color and unusual form make it a favorite among cacti enthusiasts. If you are looking for a low-maintenance plant that is both beautiful and intriguing, the crested blue candle cactus may be just what you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Is the crested blue candle cactus toxic?

No, the crested blue candle cactus is not toxic to humans or pets. However, the spines can cause irritation if they puncture the skin.

Q2. How often should I water my crested blue candle cactus?

Water your crested blue candle cactus sparingly, letting the soil dry out completely between waterings. In general, you may only need to water it once every two weeks.

Q3. Can I grow a crested blue candle cactus indoors?

Yes, you can grow a crested blue candle cactus indoors as long as it gets enough bright, indirect light.

Q4. What kind of soil does a crested blue candle cactus need?

The crested blue candle cactus prefers well-draining soil. You can use a cactus or succulent mix, or create your own by mixing sand, perlite, and potting soil.

Q5. How do I propagate a crested blue candle cactus?

You can propagate a crested blue candle cactus through stem cuttings. Take a cutting from the crest of the plant and let it dry out for a few days. Once it has calloused over, plant it in well-draining soil and water sparingly until it roots.

Q6. How big can a crested blue candle cactus get?

A crested blue candle cactus can grow up to 30 feet tall, but it typically stays much smaller in cultivation.

Q7. How long does it take for a crested blue candle cactus to reach its full size?

The crested blue candle cactus is a slow-growing plant that can take years to reach its full size.

Q8. What kind of fertilizer does a crested blue candle cactus need?

The crested blue candle cactus does not require much fertilizer. You can use a cactus fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) to give the plant a boost.

Q9. Can I eat the fruit of a crested blue candle cactus?

Yes, the fruit of a crested blue candle cactus is edible but not particularly tasty.

Q10. How can I prevent my crested blue candle cactus from getting root rot?

To prevent root rot, make sure to let the soil dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.