Cereus aethiops
Light: Full sun to light shade; in Phoenix, morning sun with afternoon shade helps prevent scorching. Acclimate gradually to stronger sun.
Water: Low water; water deeply, then allow soil to dry completely. Water sparingly during cool weather and avoid watering before freezes.
Soil: Very well-drained, sandy or gravelly soil. Use a gritty cactus mix in containers and avoid moisture-retentive planting pockets.
Mature size: Typically 6–10 feet tall and 3–6 feet wide, with size influenced by age and growing conditions.
Bloom: Mature plants produce night-opening flowers from late spring through summer; flowering depends on growing conditions.
Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen succulent with persistent stems and no conspicuous leaves.
Growth rate: Slow to moderate; faster with warmth and appropriate summer watering.