Lophocereus Schotii Monstrose (Rooted Plants)

Lophocereus Schottii monstrose, commonly known as the Totem Pole Cactus or Monster Pole Cactus, is a fascinating and highly sought-after succulent due to its unique, contorted growth habit. It's a mutated form of Lophocereus Schottii (also known as Pachycereus Schottii or Senita Cactus).

Here's a breakdown of its characteristics, care, and other details:

Characteristics:

Appearance: Unlike the straight species which has prominent ribs and spines, the Montrose form has a distinctive appearance with irregular, knobby, tubercle-like swellings along its smooth, grey-green stems. These "warts and bumps" give it a "totem pole" or "monster" look, hence its common names. It generally has very few, or no, significant spines.

Growth Habit: It's a slow-growing, columnar cactus that typically branches basally in a candelabra formation, reaching heights of 6 to 15 feet (1.8 to 4.5 meters) and widths of 3 to 10 feet (0.9 to 3 meters).

Flowering and Fruiting: The monstrose form "usually" does not flower or seed, and when it does, the flowers are often sterile (do not produce viable seeds). If flowers do appear, they are typically pale pink or white and bloom in the summer. Due to its sterile nature, all cultivated specimens are propagated vegetatively (from cuttings).

Foliage: Evergreen, with green to light green, leathery, and spiny (though often very small and insignificant in the monstrose form) stems.

Texture: Glaucous and glossy.

Origin and Distribution:

While the straight species, Lophocereus Schottii, is native to the deserts of mainland Mexico, Baja California, and the extreme south of Arizona, the Monstrose form is specifically found in a limited area northeast of El Arco, which is about halfway down the Baja California peninsula in Mexico. It thrives in alluvial plains and desert riparian environments with gravelly soils.

Care Requirements:

Light: Prefers full sun to bright, indirect light. If grown indoors, a south or west-facing window is ideal. Lack of sufficient light can lead to leggy growth. When introducing a new plant, gradually increase its exposure to direct sunlight, as greenhouse-grown plants can burn easily.

Watering: This cactus is extremely drought-tolerant and susceptible to overwatering and root rot. The "soak and dry" method is recommended: water thoroughly, then allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. It's better to underwater than overwater. Reduce watering significantly in fall and winter when the plant is dormant (e.g., once a month). In spring and summer, during the growing season, watering every 3-4 weeks may be sufficient. Wrinkling or softness can indicate underwatering.

Soil: Requires well-draining soil. A sandy, gritty, rocky, or average succulent/cactus mix is suitable. Adding perlite or coarse sand can improve drainage. Ensure the soil is porous and rich.

Temperature and Humidity: Thrives in warm, dry environments. Ideal indoor temperatures range from 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). Can be grown outdoors year-round in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11, where it can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C) for short periods, but prefers temperatures above 50°F (10°C). Protect from sudden temperature fluctuations and drafts.

Fertilizing: Fertilize sparingly, about once a year during the growing season (spring/summer) with a cactus-specific fertilizer. Over-fertilization can lead to chemical damage.

Repotting: Slow-growing, so frequent repotting isn't necessary, usually every 2-3 years. Repot in spring or summer into a pot only a few inches larger than the previous one, using fresh potting mix.

Pests and Diseases: Generally low-maintenance. Keep an eye out for mealybugs, scale, and aphids. Treat infestations promptly. The most common disease issue is root rot due to overwatering. Fungal infections can also occur through cuts or wounds.

Maintenance: Low maintenance. Dust gently to keep it clean. Stems may lean as they grow tall; staking can be done if desired, or allow them to fall and potentially root new plants in a large aggregation.

Propagation:

Exclusively propagated from stem cuttings because it rarely produces viable seeds. Cuttings should be allowed to callus over for several days before planting to prevent rot.

Landscape and Design Uses:

Its unique form makes it an excellent choice for containers, rock gardens, xeriscapes, and as an accent plant. It can add vertical and textural interest. Its smooth, thornless (or nearly so) nature makes it suitable for areas near walkways and swimming pools. It's also fire-resistant.

In summary, the Totem Pole Cactus is a distinctive and resilient cactus that, with proper care (primarily well-draining soil and infrequent watering), can be a captivating addition to any succulent collection or arid landscape