Plants in genus stenocereus
Stenocereus pruinosus
Stenocereus pruinosus is a cactus native to Mexico, known for its tree-like form with branching stems that can reach heights of 13 to 16 feet. It features a light glaucous trunk with dark green shoots and produces funnel-shaped white flowers near the shoot tips. The cactus bears green fruit tinged with red, containing edible red flesh. It is drought-tolerant and requires ample light, making it suitable for well-draining, porous soil.
Stenocereus griseus
Stenocereus griseus, also known as the Mexican organ pipe cactus, is a tree-shaped cactus native to Mexico, Venezuela, Colombia, and the Dutch Caribbean. It features upright green stems with spines and blooms with white, funnel-shaped flowers at night. This cactus is an important resource for wildlife and is used ornamentally and as a living fence.
Stenocereus thurberi
Native to Mexico and the United States, this cactus is found in rocky deserts and has narrow stems growing from a single short trunk. The stems can grow to 16-26 feet tall, with 12 to 19 ribs and dark brown to black spines. It takes 150 years to reach maturity and produces white flowers with a purple or pink tint, pollinated by bats, and red fruit with sweet flesh.
Stenocereus eruca
Stenocereus eruca, also known as the creeping devil or caterpillar cactus, is a unique cactus species native to Baja California. It features an odd, wildly spined form with stems that grow 3 to 10 feet in length. This cactus thrives in sandy plains or coastal sand dunes and is moderately drought-tolerant. It requires full sun to light shade and is sensitive to cold, making it suitable for USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11. Its distinctive appearance and resilience make it a fascinating addition to desert gardens.