Are you looking to add some color and life to your indoor space or garden? Look no further than the fairy castle cactus, known as Acanthocereus tetragonus 'monstrose'! Its name, 'monstrose', refers to its monstrous or abnormal growth pattern, which sets it apart from the regular Acanthocereus tetragonus (Cereus tetragonus). 

This fairy cactus features multiple branching columns that resemble the turrets of a fairy castle, hence its common name. It has also several other common names such as Barbed wire cactus, triangle cactus, fairytale castle, or green finger. 

Native to Central, North, and South America, this fairy castle cactus has a fascinating appearance with its densely packed branches and bright green ribbed stems that grow upright. Its unique branching structure, resembling a castle or fortress, makes it a popular choice for adding visual interest to indoor and outdoor gardens. This fairy cactus is a very slow-growing plant but can grow up to 6 feet tall over time, with each stem forming intricate and intricate patterns. 

The fairy castle cactus is indeed a night-blooming cereus plant. The large white fairy castle cactus flowers open up in the evening and close by morning, creating a magical display under the moonlight during the summer months. These flowers attract hummingbird moths. This fairy castle cactus care includes specific environmental conditions, such as intense sunlight and warm temperatures, to encourage blooming. 

This Acanthocereus can be easily propagated by stem cuttings. Plus, it's important to keep in mind that the Fairy Castle Cactus is mildly toxic to cats, dogs, and humans if ingested, so it's best to keep it out of reach of pets and children. 

Watering Needs

The watering needs of the Fairy Castle Cactus are quite unique! This cactus is native to arid regions, so it has adapted to survive in dry conditions. It prefers infrequent watering. 

To water the Fairy castle, you can use the "soak and dry" method. This means thoroughly watering the soil until water drains out of the bottom of the pot, and then waiting until the soil is completely dry before watering again. Water your fairy castle cacti thoroughly during the growing season when the soil is dry to the touch. Less or no water during cold winter months (dormant period) to prevent root loss. 

Remember, it's always better to underwater than to overwater this fairy cactus. It has adapted to survive in dry conditions, so it can tolerate periods of drought. Observing the moisture level of the soil and adjusting your watering schedule accordingly will help ensure the health and longevity of your Fairy Castle Cactus. 

Light Requirements

The Fairy Castle Cactus loves bright, indirect light! It thrives in well-lit areas, but direct sunlight can be too intense for this delicate cactus. Placing it near a window where your Acanthocereus tetragonus can receive bright, filtered light for at least 4 hours a day is ideal. If you notice that the cactus is stretching or leaning toward the light source, it may be an indication that it needs a bright sunny location. 

If you're growing the fairy cactus indoors, you can also use artificial grow lights to provide the necessary bright light intensity. LED grow lights or fluorescent lights can be great options to supplement natural light and ensure that your Acanthocereus cactus receives adequate light for healthy growth. 

Remember to rotate your fairy castle cactus occasionally to ensure even light distribution and prevent it from leaning towards one side. Providing the right amount of light will help your fairy castle maintain its vibrant and enchanting appearance. 

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs 

The fairy castle thrives in well-draining soil to prevent waterlogged roots. A mix of cactus potting soil and perlite or pumice in an unglazed clay pot works well to ensure good drainage. This type of soil allows excess water to flow out quickly, preventing the roots from sitting in damp conditions. Moisture can be a real killer, leading to root and stem rot in no time flat. But fear not my fellow green thumbs!  

Planet Desert has got your back with our specialized cactus potting mix that includes 5 natural substrates with organic mycorrhizae – perfect for promoting healthy roots and happy plants. 

When it comes to fertilizing, the fairy castle cactus doesn't require a lot of nutrients. During the growing season once a year in the spring, you can use a balanced cactus fertilizer with an equal mix of NPK (5-10-50).  However, it's important not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to nutrient burn or other issues. Remember, the fairy castle is adapted to survive in nutrient-poor environments, so it doesn't have high fertilizer needs. 

Hardiness Zone & More

The Fairy castle cactus is typically hardy in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11. It prefers warm temperatures ranging from 65°F to 80°F. It's important to protect the cactus from temperatures below 50°F as it can be sensitive to cold drafts. 

In terms of humidity, the Fairy cactus is adapted to arid conditions and can tolerate low humidity levels. It doesn't require high humidity, but it's important to provide adequate air circulation to prevent excessive moisture around the cactus, which can lead to fungal issues. Remember to keep your Fairy Castle plant in a warm and dry environment to ensure its optimal growth and health. Providing the right temperature and humidity conditions will help your cactus thrive. 

We think you will love this plant – order your very own Acanthocereus tetragonus 'monstrose' - Fairy castle cactus today and start enjoying its beauty in no time!