This is a monstrose form of the Opuntia subulata, also known as Austrocylindropuntia subulata.
Origin and habitat: Probably native only to the Andes of Peru
It is a popular well-known shrubby cactus with several main branches from the base or a small tree with a simple erect trunk and a large almost hemispherical top often 3 to 4(-5) meters high. The leaves are relatively large and persistent.
Some of the information in this description has been found at desert-tropicals.com, llifle.com and cactus-art.biz
Blooming Season | Spring and summer |
---|---|
Common Name | Christmas tree cactus |
Dormancy | Winter |
Family | Cactaceae |
Flower | Light pink |
Frost Tolerance | -5° C |
Growth Rate | Fast growth |
Hardiness Zone | 9b to 11b |
Height | 13 feet |
Origin | Peruvian andes |
Shape | Globose |
Sun Exposure | Full sun |