Overview

Introduce a truly unique specimen to your plant collection with the blue candle crested cactus. This fascinating live plant, scientifically known as Myrtillocactus geometrizans ‘Strictum Cristata’, is prized for its unusual crested form, which gives it a wavy, fan-like appearance unlike typical columnar cacti. Originating from Mexico, this plant is a striking example of natural artistry, making it a highly sought-after succulent for enthusiasts and collectors alike. Its distinctive blue-green stems and geometric ribs create an eye-catching display, perfect for adding architectural interest to any indoor or outdoor setting. This particular variety is often referred to as a rare crested cactus due to its unique growth pattern, which occurs when the plant’s growing point mutates and expands laterally.

The blue candle crested cactus is a captivating addition that combines both beauty and resilience. As a succulent live plant, it is remarkably adaptable and can flourish in a variety of environments with minimal intervention. Its dramatic form makes it a focal point in desert-themed gardens, rockeries, or as a standalone potted plant on a patio or windowsill. The ‘Strictum Cristata’ cultivar enhances the inherent charm of the Myrtillocactus species, offering a more intricate and sculptural form that evolves beautifully over time. This plant is not just a decorative item; it’s a living sculpture that brings a touch of the arid landscape’s majesty into your home.

Key Benefits

The blue candle crested cactus offers numerous advantages for both seasoned plant parents and beginners, making it an excellent choice for a diverse range of settings. Its unique characteristics contribute to its appeal and ease of care.

• Exceptional Ornamental Value: The striking crested form and vibrant blue-green coloration of this myrtillocactus geometrizans make it a true living sculpture. It adds dramatic visual interest and a sophisticated, architectural element to any plant collection, garden, or indoor space.
• Low Maintenance: This is an incredibly easy care cactus, perfect for those with busy lifestyles or new to plant care. It requires infrequent watering and tolerates neglect better than many other houseplants, thriving on minimal attention.
• Drought Tolerance: As a succulent, the blue candle crested cactus is highly adapted to arid conditions. It stores water efficiently in its stems, making it an ideal choice for water-wise gardening and reducing the need for constant hydration.
• Unique Growth Habit: The ‘Strictum Cristata’ mutation results in a fascinating, wavy, brain-like crest. This rare growth pattern sets it apart from typical columnar cacti, making it a conversation starter and a prized specimen for collectors of unique plants.
• Versatile Placement: Suitable for both indoor and outdoor cultivation in appropriate climates, this cactus can enhance diverse environments. It looks stunning in decorative pots, rock gardens, or as part of a succulent arrangement.
• Potential for Edible Fruit: In its mature form, the species Myrtillocactus geometrizans can produce small, sweet, blueberry-like fruits. While cresting can sometimes affect fruit production, the possibility adds another interesting dimension to the plant’s utility and appeal.
• Air Purification: Like many plants, succulents contribute to a healthier indoor environment by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, albeit to a lesser extent than leafy plants.

Plant Care & Growing Tips

Caring for your blue candle crested cactus is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. This succulent live plant thrives with proper light, careful watering, and well-draining soil. Providing the right conditions will ensure its vibrant health and unique crested growth.

Sunlight Requirements: The myrtillocactus geometrizans ‘Strictum Cristata’ requires abundant sunlight to maintain its vibrant blue-green color and compact growth. Ideally, provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. When grown indoors, place it in a south-facing window or under a grow light. If moving outdoors, acclimate it gradually to prevent sunburn. In very hot climates, some afternoon shade can be beneficial to prevent scorching, especially during peak summer.

Watering Schedule and Soil Moisture: Overwatering is the most common cause of problems for this easy care cactus. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, then water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot. In summer, this might mean watering every 2-4 weeks, while in winter, it could be as infrequent as once a month or even less, depending on humidity and temperature. Always check the soil moisture with your finger before watering. Good drainage is crucial.

Soil Type and Drainage: A well-draining potting mix is essential for the health of your blue candle crested cactus. Use a specialized cactus or succulent mix, or create your own by combining potting soil with perlite, pumice, or coarse sand in a 1:1 ratio. The pot should always have drainage holes to prevent root rot.

Temperature Range and USDA Hardiness Zone: This cactus prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 60-90°F (15-32°C). It is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from temperatures below 40°F (4°C). If grown outdoors in zones where winter temperatures drop below this, it should be brought indoors or provided with frost protection. It is generally suitable for USDA zones 9-11 for outdoor cultivation.

Fertilization: Fertilize sparingly during the active growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer formulated for cacti and succulents. Apply once every 2-3 months at half strength. Avoid fertilizing during fall and winter when the plant is dormant.

Common Problems and Solutions: Watch out for signs of overwatering, such as mushy stems or yellowing. If this occurs, reduce watering frequency and ensure proper drainage. Pests like mealybugs or spider mites can occasionally be an issue; treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed. Ensuring good air circulation can help prevent fungal issues.

Size & Details

This blue candle crested cactus is a live plant specimen of Myrtillocactus geometrizans ‘Strictum Cristata’. It is typically shipped as a well-rooted plant in a 4-inch nursery pot, ready for transplanting or display. The size of the plant will vary slightly due to its unique crested growth habit, but it will be a healthy, established specimen. In its natural habitat, the columnar form of this species can reach impressive heights of 6-10 feet, but the crested variety tends to grow more slowly and remains more compact in cultivation, making it suitable for container growing. The plant will continue to develop its intricate cresting patterns over time, offering continuous visual appeal.

The rare crested cactus will be carefully packaged to ensure safe arrival. While the initial size is compact, its growth rate is considered moderate, allowing it to gradually develop into a significant sculptural piece. Expect to see new growth during the spring and summer months, adding to the complexity and beauty of its unique form. This succulent live plant is a long-term investment in botanical art, maturing gracefully with minimal intervention.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: How big does this plant get? A: While the standard blue candle crested cactus can grow quite large, the ‘Strictum Cristata’ crested form typically remains more compact in cultivation, usually reaching 1-3 feet in height and width over many years, making it suitable for pots.
• Q: What size pot does it come in? A: This myrtillocactus geometrizans live plant is typically shipped in a 4-inch nursery pot, providing a good start for its growth.
• Q: Is this an indoor or outdoor plant? A: It can be grown both indoors and outdoors. Outdoors, it thrives in USDA zones 9-11. Indoors, it needs a bright, sunny location, such as a south-facing window.
• Q: How much sunlight does it need? A: The blue candle crested cactus requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Bright, sunny conditions are essential for its health and vibrant coloration.
• Q: Is this plant easy to care for? A: Yes, it is considered an easy care cactus. Its primary needs are plenty of sunlight and infrequent watering, making it suitable for beginners and busy individuals.
• Q: What condition will it arrive in? A: Your succulent live plant will be carefully packaged to ensure it arrives in healthy, established condition, ready to be placed in your home or garden.
• Q: Is it shipped in soil? A: Yes, the plant is typically shipped rooted in its nursery pot with soil, providing stability and minimizing stress during transit.
• Q: How often should I water my rare crested cactus? A: Water only when the soil has completely dried out. This could range from every 2-4 weeks in summer to once a month or less in winter, depending on environmental conditions.
• Q: Can I propagate this plant? A: Propagation of crested cacti can be more challenging than standard forms but is possible through stem cuttings. Allow cuttings to callus before planting in well-draining soil.
• Q: Will it survive winter in my zone? A: This cactus is not frost-tolerant. If you live in a zone where temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C), you must bring your blue candle crested cactus indoors for the winter.