Facheiro (Pilosocereus pentaedrophorus) is a columnar cactus from Brazil, known for its ribbed stems and beautiful nocturnal flowers. It thrives in arid conditions.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers bright, direct sunlight for most of the day. Can tolerate some partial shade during the hottest part of summer.
Infrequent
25% intensity
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter.
Well-draining cactus or succulent mix
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Enjoys warm temperatures (20-30°C) during the growing season. Can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures (around 10-15°C) in winter dormancy, but protect from frost.
Low
25% intensity
Feed with a diluted cactus fertilizer only during the active growing season (spring/summer).
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. In its native arid environment, Facheiro stores water in its stem.
Overwatering is the most common cause of rot, so err on the side of dryness, especially during winter dormancy when water needs are minimal.
Pruning is generally not necessary for Pilosocereus pentaedrophorus unless removing dead, damaged, or diseased stems. If a stem needs to be removed, use a sharp, sterilized knife or saw to make a clean cut at the base of the stem to prevent infection.
Propagation is typically achieved through stem cuttings. Allow cuttings to callus over for several days to weeks before planting in well-draining cactus soil.
Rooting can be slow and requires patience, with warmth and bright light aiding the process.
Repot Pilosocereus pentaedrophorus every 2-3 years, or when it outgrows its current container. Choose a pot with drainage holes and use a gritty, fast-draining cactus mix.
Repotting is best done in spring, at the beginning of the growing season.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Facheiro (Pilosocereus pentaedrophorus)
Where Facheiro (Pilosocereus pentaedrophorus) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Pilosocereus |
| Species | Pilosocereus pentaedrophorus |
Similar in genus Pilosocereus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
