Cylindropuntia

Considered a subgenus of Opuntia, it collects plants of species recognizable by their cylindrical stem, branched and divided into segments which sometimes form very intricate shrubs. These are very robust plants, resistant to frost and adaptable to difficult terrains. Those of greater size can be used to form impenetrable living barriers.

Widely diffused from the USA, Mexico, Caribbean islands and Venezuela, it groups few species of interest for the collector as they are often fast growing plants which require space and therefore badly adapt to the cultivation in pots. The use of these plants in the arid garden is interesting, even in cold climates, but require punctual maintenance.

Cultivation in well-drained soils exposed to full sun is recommended. Carefully predict the final size of the adult plants, Intervening with even drastic pruning if necessary. The flowers are large, burgundy red or purple and appear all summer on top of the tallest stems. Followed by sulfur yellow berries that persist for a long time on the plant.

	GROWING MEDIUM Balanced mix of lapillus, pumice and peat in equal parts.
	EXPOSURE Gradual exposure to full sun in conditions of good ventilation
	COLD TOLERANCE Freezing winter temperature with night low below 0 °C (32 °F).

GROWING MEDIUM

Balanced mix of lapillus, pumice and peat in equal parts.

EXPOSURE

Gradual exposure to full sun in conditions of good ventilation

COLD TOLERANCE

Freezing winter temperature with night low below 0 °C (32 °F).

	WATERING Water moderately waiting for the soil to dry.
	GROWING SEASON A summer cycle with growth from March to September.
	NUTRITION Fertilization low in nitrogen with NPK titre similar to 8:16:32.