MON130 Chichipe ( Polaskia chichipe )
A large, tree-like columnar cactus native to the arid regions of central Mexico, specifically Oaxaca and Puebla. Highly valued for its architectural, sculptural form, it features greenish-grey stems with 9–12 wavy, acute ribs and small clusters of greyish spines.
Slowly grows into a branching, tree-like structure reaching heights of 13 to 16.5 feet (4–5 meters). Produces small, cup-shaped flowers that range from yellowish-green to pinkish-white. They typically bloom in late spring or early summer and open at night.
Edible Fruit: Known as "chichituna," the small red spherical fruits are sweet and traditionally harvested for consumption or local dishes in Mexico. Younger growth often has a reddish tint on the rib edges, while older parts develop a powdery, glaucous (greyish-blue) coating.
Care and CultivationLight: Requires full sun (at least 6 hours daily). Indoors, it should be placed near a south-facing window.Watering: Extremely drought-tolerant. Water deeply only when the soil is 90–100% dry. During its winter dormancy (October to March), watering should be reduced or stopped entirely to prevent root rot.Soil: Needs excellent drainage. Use a gritty, mineral-heavy cactus or succulent mix (roughly 70–80% mineral grit like pumice or perlite).
Temperature: Not frost-tolerant. It prefers temperatures between 18–30°C (64–86°F) and should be brought indoors if temperatures drop below 10°C (50°F).
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