The Pilosocereus gounellei cluster is a fascinating, fast-growing columnar cactus known for its blue-green stems, woolly areoles, and spiny ridges. Native to Brazil, this striking species forms dense clusters of upright stems, creating a visually dynamic display in both container gardens and desert landscapes. With its ability to thrive in arid conditions and its eye-catching coloration, Pilosocereus gounellei is a favorite among cactus enthusiasts.
Unlike slow-growing cacti, this species has a moderate to fast growth rate, making it an excellent choice for those looking to establish a large cactus specimen over time.
The stems can reach up to 10 feet tall, though smaller clustered offsets create a full, bushy appearance at the base.
Its natural habitat includes dry, rocky regions, where it has adapted to survive with minimal water.
The flowers of Pilosocereus gounellei cactus are known for their large, night-blooming tubular white or pale-yellow flowers that attract bats and moths when they mature.
The blooms are followed by small, fleshy fruits that contain seeds, offering an additional element of interest for growers. Though flowering may take several years, its unique coloration and sculptural form make it an attractive specimen even when not in bloom.
How to Care for Your Pilosocereus gounellei Cluster
- Light: This cactus thrives in full sun and requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. When grown indoors, place it near a south-facing window or use a grow light to maintain healthy growth.
- Soil: A fast-draining cactus mix for healthy growth.
- Watering: Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to completely dry out between waterings. Reduce watering during winter dormancy.
- Indoor Temperature: It prefers 65-85°F. Protect from frost and avoid placing it in areas with cold drafts.
- Outdoor USDA Zones: Hardy in USDA zones 9-11. In colder climates, grow it in containers and bring it indoors when temperatures drop below 40°F.
- Fertilizer: A diluted cactus NPK fertilizer can be applied once a year in the spring to support healthy growth, though over-fertilization is unnecessary.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Pilosocereus gounellei is an excellent choice for those looking to add a low-maintenance, fast-growing cactus to their collection. Its tall, clustering growth, blue-green coloration, and woolly areoles make it a visually appealing option for arid gardens, xeriscaping, or container displays. Whether grown as a standalone specimen or in combination with other drought-tolerant plants, this cactus thrives in sunny, well-drained environments with minimal care.
Please visit our main product page to learn more about Pilosocereus gounellei Care.
Bloom Season
Flower Color
Growth Rate
Hardiness Zone
Mature Size
Plant Type
Resistance
Sun Exposure
Watering Needs
| Bloom Season | Spring, Autumn |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Pilosocereus gounellei cluster |
| Common Name | Xique-Xique cactus |
| Dormancy | Winter |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Flower Color | Pale-yellow |
| Genus | Pilosocereus |
| Growth Habit | Cluster |
| Growth Rate | Moderate to fast |
| Hardiness Zone | 9, 10, 11 |
| Mature Size | 10 ft. tall |
| Native Area | Brazil |
| Plant Type | Cactus |
| Propagation | By seeds, offsets |
| Resistance | Extremely drought-tolerant, heat tolerant, pest resistant |
| Soil PH | 6.5, Acidic, Neutral |
| Soil Type | Cactus potting mix soil |
| Special Features | Easy to grow, Easy to maintain |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun, partial shade |
| Toxicity | Safe for humans, friendly to dogs, friendly to cats |
| Watering Needs | Low |
Growers Quick Reference Guide - Key Features
| Bloom Season | Spring, Autumn |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Pilosocereus gounellei cluster |
| Common Name | Xique-Xique cactus |
| Dormancy | Winter |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Flower Color | Pale-yellow |
| Genus | Pilosocereus |
| Growth Habit | Cluster |
| Growth Rate | Moderate to fast |
| Hardiness Zone | 9, 10, 11 |
| Mature Size | 10 ft. tall |
| Native Area | Brazil |
| Plant Type | Cactus |
| Propagation | By seeds, offsets |
| Resistance | Extremely drought-tolerant, heat tolerant, pest resistant |
| Soil PH | 6.5, Acidic, Neutral |
| Soil Type | Cactus potting mix soil |
| Special Features | Easy to grow, Easy to maintain |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun, partial shade |
| Toxicity | Safe for humans, friendly to dogs, friendly to cats |
| Watering Needs | Low |
- Description
- Key Plant Features
The Pilosocereus gounellei cluster is a fascinating, fast-growing columnar cactus known for its blue-green stems, woolly areoles, and spiny ridges. Native to Brazil, this striking species forms dense clusters of upright stems, creating a visually dynamic display in both container gardens and desert landscapes. With its ability to thrive in arid conditions and its eye-catching coloration, Pilosocereus gounellei is a favorite among cactus enthusiasts.
Unlike slow-growing cacti, this species has a moderate to fast growth rate, making it an excellent choice for those looking to establish a large cactus specimen over time.
The stems can reach up to 10 feet tall, though smaller clustered offsets create a full, bushy appearance at the base.
Its natural habitat includes dry, rocky regions, where it has adapted to survive with minimal water.
The flowers of Pilosocereus gounellei cactus are known for their large, night-blooming tubular white or pale-yellow flowers that attract bats and moths when they mature.
The blooms are followed by small, fleshy fruits that contain seeds, offering an additional element of interest for growers. Though flowering may take several years, its unique coloration and sculptural form make it an attractive specimen even when not in bloom.
How to Care for Your Pilosocereus gounellei Cluster
- Light: This cactus thrives in full sun and requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. When grown indoors, place it near a south-facing window or use a grow light to maintain healthy growth.
- Soil: A fast-draining cactus mix for healthy growth.
- Watering: Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to completely dry out between waterings. Reduce watering during winter dormancy.
- Indoor Temperature: It prefers 65-85°F. Protect from frost and avoid placing it in areas with cold drafts.
- Outdoor USDA Zones: Hardy in USDA zones 9-11. In colder climates, grow it in containers and bring it indoors when temperatures drop below 40°F.
- Fertilizer: A diluted cactus NPK fertilizer can be applied once a year in the spring to support healthy growth, though over-fertilization is unnecessary.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Pilosocereus gounellei is an excellent choice for those looking to add a low-maintenance, fast-growing cactus to their collection. Its tall, clustering growth, blue-green coloration, and woolly areoles make it a visually appealing option for arid gardens, xeriscaping, or container displays. Whether grown as a standalone specimen or in combination with other drought-tolerant plants, this cactus thrives in sunny, well-drained environments with minimal care.
Please visit our main product page to learn more about Pilosocereus gounellei Care.
Bloom Season
Flower Color
Growth Rate
Hardiness Zone
Mature Size
Plant Type
Resistance
Sun Exposure
Watering Needs
| Bloom Season | Spring, Autumn |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Pilosocereus gounellei cluster |
| Common Name | Xique-Xique cactus |
| Dormancy | Winter |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Flower Color | Pale-yellow |
| Genus | Pilosocereus |
| Growth Habit | Cluster |
| Growth Rate | Moderate to fast |
| Hardiness Zone | 9, 10, 11 |
| Mature Size | 10 ft. tall |
| Native Area | Brazil |
| Plant Type | Cactus |
| Propagation | By seeds, offsets |
| Resistance | Extremely drought-tolerant, heat tolerant, pest resistant |
| Soil PH | 6.5, Acidic, Neutral |
| Soil Type | Cactus potting mix soil |
| Special Features | Easy to grow, Easy to maintain |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun, partial shade |
| Toxicity | Safe for humans, friendly to dogs, friendly to cats |
| Watering Needs | Low |
Growers Quick Reference Guide - Key Features
| Bloom Season | Spring, Autumn |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Pilosocereus gounellei cluster |
| Common Name | Xique-Xique cactus |
| Dormancy | Winter |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Flower Color | Pale-yellow |
| Genus | Pilosocereus |
| Growth Habit | Cluster |
| Growth Rate | Moderate to fast |
| Hardiness Zone | 9, 10, 11 |
| Mature Size | 10 ft. tall |
| Native Area | Brazil |
| Plant Type | Cactus |
| Propagation | By seeds, offsets |
| Resistance | Extremely drought-tolerant, heat tolerant, pest resistant |
| Soil PH | 6.5, Acidic, Neutral |
| Soil Type | Cactus potting mix soil |
| Special Features | Easy to grow, Easy to maintain |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun, partial shade |
| Toxicity | Safe for humans, friendly to dogs, friendly to cats |
| Watering Needs | Low |
