Stenocereus Beneckei (Rooted Plants)

Stenocereus Beneckei is a highly distinctive and sought-after columnar cactus, particularly cherished for its striking appearance.

Here's what makes it stand out:

Identity and Origin:

Scientific Name: Stenocereus beneckei (C.Ehrenb.) Buxb.

Synonyms: It has gone through several reclassifications over the years, including Cereus beneckei, Hertrichocereus beneckei, Lemaireocereus beneckei, Piptanthocereus beneckei, and Rathbunia beneckei.

Native Range: Endemic to central Mexico, specifically growing on rocky cliffs in deciduous forests at altitudes of 1200 to 1400 meters in the states of Guerrero, Morelos, Puebla, and México.

Conservation Status: It is classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN, primarily due to habitat loss from land-use changes for farming.

Naming: The species epithet "beneckei" honors Stephan Benecke, a German trader and consul in Mexico.
Key Characteristics:

Growth Habit: It's a shrub-like columnar cactus with upright or slightly curved shoots, typically growing 1–2 meters tall, but can reach more.
Stems: The most captivating feature is its light to gray-green stems that often appear whitish due to a thick, powdery, silvery-white glaucous coating (farina) on new growth. This bloom is delicate and rubs off easily, revealing the blue-green or even bronze color underneath on older parts of the stem. Stems are typically 5–7 cm in diameter, and relatively slender for a Stenocereus.

Ribs: Features 6–9 widely spaced ribs that are often divided into large, blunt cusps (tubercles).

Spines:
Typically has a single stiff, blackish central spine up to 4 cm long.
Accompanied by 2–5 grayish marginal spines up to 1.7 cm long.
There is also a popular spineless form (Stenocereus beneckei f. inermis) which is even more striking and can appear almost "artificial" with its smooth, white body and often bright maroon or red areoles. The spineless form can be harder to root from cuttings.

Flowers:
Bloom near the shoot tips, opening at night and remaining open into the next day.
They are typically brownish on the outside and white to cream-colored on the inside.
Measure 6.5–8 cm long.
Blooming season is typically in winter, but this can vary with cultivation conditions.
Fruit: Ellipsoid, tuberous fruits that are initially green, turning red as they mature. They can reach up to 5 cm long and 3 cm in diameter, with colorless flesh.
Seeds: Large, shiny black seeds.
Cultivation and Care:

Light: Prefers full sun to bright, direct light. It thrives in heat. The powdery coating is believed to be an adaptation to intense sunlight on rocky cliffs in its habitat.
Soil: Requires extremely well-draining soil. A typical cactus mix amended with plenty of pumice, perlite, or gravel is ideal. Good airflow in the soil is crucial to prevent root rot.

Watering:
Drought-tolerant, but appreciates regular watering during its growing season (warmest months/summer), especially if in full sun.
Allow the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Reduce watering significantly in cooler weather and winter to encourage dormancy. Keeping it damp in cold periods will likely lead to fungal issues.
Temperature:
Not very cold hardy. While some sources say it can resist down to -4°C (25°F) for a short time, it's best to protect it from freezing temperatures, especially when wet.
Ideal growing temperatures are 25-35°C (77-95°F).
Humidity: Prefers low humidity, making it well-suited for dry indoor environments.
Fertilization: Benefits from regular feeding with a weak cactus fertilizer during the growing season.
Propagation: Can be propagated from cuttings (allow to callous thoroughly) or from seeds, which are relatively easy to germinate.
Special Considerations:
Do not touch or sprinkle water on the white powdery bloom as it rubs off very easily and does not regenerate. This is its most prized aesthetic feature.
Due to its slender stems, it might bend or bow if not adequately supported as it grows taller.
While relatively easy to grow, blooming may be a challenge unless grown in ideal greenhouse conditions with ample light and warmth in winter.
Why it's Coveted:

Ghostly Appearance: The contrast between its pale, powdery body and dark spines is visually striking and makes it a "conversation piece."
Unique Texture: The tuberculate (cusped) ribs add to its distinct form.
Relatively Easy Care: Despite its unique look, it's considered durable and tough for a cactus, flourishing with adequate care.
Stenocereus beneckei is a must-have for serious cactus collectors who appreciate unique forms and stark beauty.