Beautiful cactus with edible fruits that resemble blueberries

Myrtillocactus geometrizans is a large, richly branched cactus with a characteristic blue-green color on the stem. This cactus rarely reaches more than 4.5 meters in height with a diameter of about 10 centimeters and is in many ways reminiscent of Cereus species, although with less sharply marked ridges.

The plant produces white to whitish-pink flowers followed by small, almost spherical fruits that turn blue-purple when ripe, hence the name blueberry cactus. The fruits are edible and are considered to taste good. The scientific name Myrtillocactus comes from the Greek myrtilli'nus (blueberry-like) and cactus, describing the fruits' resemblance to blueberries.

Botanical description

Myrtillocactus geometrizans is native to Mexico and Central America where it grows in dry, sunny areas. Young plants propagated from seed are almost completely thornless for the first few years, making them popular as grafting stock because they grow quickly and are easy to handle.

The species has distinct ridges along the stem, but these are not as sharply marked as in the Cereus genus. The characteristic blue-green to blue-dew color is a distinguishing feature that becomes more intense when grown in bright light.

Care

Myrtillocactus geometrizans will do well in any acceptable cactus soil and requires plenty of water from spring to fall during active growth. Good drainage is essential.

Winter care requires different treatment. The plant is prone to unsightly spots if the temperature gets too low, especially with high humidity. The ideal minimum temperature during winter is 10°C, at which the plant should be kept completely dry to avoid spots.

If grown in a living room where the temperature never drops below 16°C, the plant must be watered occasionally even during the winter to prevent it from shriveling up. To maintain the beautiful blue color of the plant body, as much light as possible is needed, place in a sunny window.

Place outdoors in full sun during the summer for best color and growth. Fertilize monthly during the growing season with cactus food. Propagate by seed or cuttings. Buy blueberry cactus online!