A columnar cactus native to central and northern Mexico with thick, blue-green stems that branch candelabra-style with age. Produces small edible berries (garambullo) resembling blueberries. A popular specimen or accent for desert landscapes.

Bloom Time

Spring

Deciduous / Evergreen

Evergreen

Special Features

Drought Tolerant, Edible, Heat Tolerant, Reflected Heat Tolerant

Growth Rate

Slow to moderate

Growth Habit

Columnar cactus – branching

Mature Size

10-15 ft tall × 6-10 ft wide

Flower Color

White to cream

Foliage Color

Blue-green

Landscape Use

Cactus / Succulent Garden, Desert / Xeriscape, Specimen / Accent

Garden Style

Desert / Xeriscape

Soil

Alkaline Tolerant, Sandy / Rocky, Well-Drained

Companion Plants

Agave, Ferocactus, Ocotillo, Opuntia, Saguaro

Non-toxic

Care Instructions

Light: Full sun

Water: Very low; deep, infrequent watering once established.

Soil: Well-draining sandy or rocky soil; tolerates alkaline desert soils.

Mature size: 10-15 ft tall, 6-10 ft wide

Bloom: Spring

Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen

Growth rate: Slow to moderate