Pitayo de Mayo

Trying to figure out a way to bring your garden together? And tie it all in?  I've been really enjoying mixing different varieties of cactus together and this is another plant that grows tall with an attractive form.  There are 3 things to watch out for when planting this cactus into the ground.  1.  If planting in the full summer sun, give it a tad bit shade when first putting it into the ground so that it can build up tolerance to the full sun.  2.  Don't overwater, BUT it does like a little bit more water than other cactus.  3.  Protect from extreme freezing temps.

Recommended Temperature Zone:
USDA: 9b-11

Frost Tolerance: takes little frost

Sun Exposure: Full sun

Origin: Coastal Venezuela and islands nearby; encountered in Mexico in Oaxaca and Veracruz, possibly escaped from cultivation

Growth Habits: Tree like cactus, up to 30 feet tall (9 m), stems up to 5 inches in diameter (12 cm); 6-10 ribs; areoles 0.8 to 1.2 in. apart (2-3 cm), 0.3 in. long (8 mm); 1-3 reddish centrals, up to 1.6 inch (4 cm); 10-11 grey radials, up to 0.4 in long (1 cm)

For more info, click here.

I placed this cactus into the garden in October and look forward to watching it grow over the next couple of years. Until tomorrow....