Myrtillocactus cochal (Candelabra Cactus)

Resembling a candelabra with age, Myrtillocactus cochal (Candelabra Cactus) is a large sprawling shrub or tree-like cactus with a short woody trunk and many slender branches. Upright or gracefully recurved, the branches, up to 3.5 in. across (9cm), are bluish-green, each with 6-8 obtuse ribs. Along the stems are areoles that bear up to 1 black central spine, 0.8 in. long (2 cm) and 5 shorter radial spines. In summer, showy greenish-white, scented flowers are followed by red, juicy, slightly acidic, edible fruits. Despite the large stature of this cactus, the flowers, 1 in. across (2.5 cm), and fruits, 0.7 in. across (1.8 cm), are rather small. Candelabra Cactus lives only a few decades. Easy to grow, it is not as frost-tolerant as its cousin, Myrtillocactus geometrizans, and is reported to be cold-hardy down to 50°F (10°C) for short periods.

• Grows up to 3-12 ft. tall (90-360 cm) and 5-12 ft. wide (150-360 cm).
• Easily grown in full sun in a well-drained soil with small gravel added to ensure good drainage. Appreciates light shade when young. Water regularly when in growth. Make sure you let the soil dry out between waterings. No water should ever be allowed to stand around the roots. Keep the plant rather dry and water only enough to keep the stems and branches from shriveling. Drought tolerant.
• Great for desert gardens, rock gardens, succulent gardens or Mediterranean gardens.
• If keeping as a potted plant, repot at least every other year in order to allow the proper room for growth.
• Propagate by seed or stem cuttings during the summer months.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for mealybugs. Susceptible to fungal diseases if over-watered.
• Native to the Baja California peninsula of Mexico..