Vatricania guentheri cristata
Vatricania guentheri cristata
CactaceaeVatricania guentheri cristata · a cactus of the Cactaceae family, a columnar cactus covered in silky white hairs. Grown in our nursery in the Almería desert in full sun, with minimal watering and 100% mineral soil—the specimen in the photo is the one you will receive.
About Vatricania guentheri cristata
Vatricania guentheri cristata is one of the most distinctive cactuss in the Cactaceae family. Its origin is in Bolivia. It is characterized by columnar stem with lateral cephalium (woolly patch), an evolutionary adaptation that makes it a unique piece in the world of succulents.
Every specimen of Vatricania guentheri cristata from Succulentae is grown outdoors in our Almería nursery, exposed to desert sun and controlled mineral watering. The result: more compact, better colored and more resilient plants than those grown in artificial greenhouses.
Botanical fact sheet
| Scientific name | Vatricania guentheri cristata | |
| Family | Cactaceae | |
| Origin | Bolivia | |
| Natural habitat | dry Andean valleys | |
| Adult size | up to 4 m | |
| Flowering | nocturnal flowers in lateral cephalium | |
| Propagation | seed or cutting | |
| Toxicity | non-toxic |
Did you know?
It is a monotypic genus (V. guentheri) endemic to Bolivia. Its lateral cephalium, a specific fruiting zone covered in wool, is a unique feature among columnar cacti.
Light
Full sun — at least 6 hours of direct light. South-facing window or sunny outdoors.
Water
Water when the substrate is completely dry. In summer every 1-2 weeks, let it rest in winter (every 3-4 weeks or less).
Substrate
Mineral substrate with high drainage: pumice, akadama and a little peat. We ship it ready in its substrate — no repotting needed for 12-18 months.
Temperature
Ideal between 18 and 28 °C. Tolerates down to 5 °C in winter if the substrate is dry. Protect from frost.
"Arrived in perfect condition and very well packaged. The plant is gorgeous, even better than in the photo."
"Fast service, healthy and beautiful plant. Will order again."
"Very happy with the purchase. Only minus one star because it took an extra day."