Myrtillocactus (from Latin, "blueberry cactus") is a genus of cacti. The genus is found from Mexico to Guatemala. The genus is best known with Myrtillocactus geometrizans.
The genus Myrtillocereus Fric & Kreuz. (orth. var.) has been brought into synonymy with this genus.
Description The largest plants in this genus can grow as tall as 13 meters. This cactus tends to flower in the summer and creates edible purple berries.
Extant species Image Scientific name Common name Distribution Myrtillocactus cochal (Orcutt) Britton & Rose Cochal, Candelabra Cactus Baja California peninsula of Mexico. Myrtillocactus eichlamii Britton & Rose Guatemala Myrtillocactus geometrizans (Mart. ex Pfeiff.) Console bilberry cactus, whortleberry cactus or blue candle central and northern Mexico Myrtillocactus schenckii (J.A.Purpus) Britton & Rose Garambullo, Vichishovo Guatemala; Mexico (Chiapas, Oaxaca, Puebla)
Cultivation The cuttings, which will grow quickly, from this cactus need to be taken when the temperature is high enough or the cuttings will not root. It is recommended that species should be kept dry and not under in winter.
There are many cultivar varieties from monstrose or crested forms.
See also
× Myrtgerocactus - a natural hybrid involving Myrtillocactus cochal
References