Pilosocereus gounellei

🌵 Pilosocereus gounellei

Category: Tree-like Columnar Cactus
Origin: Northeastern Brazil
Delivery: Bare-root plant (or potted, if applicable)

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Product Overview:

Pilosocereus gounellei is a beautiful and fast-growing columnar cactus native to the arid Caatinga biome of Brazil. It is known for its upright, branching stems, striking blue-green skin, and rows of golden to white bristly areoles along its ribs. Over time, it can form a tall, tree-like structure and develop a woody trunk at the base. This cactus is not only architectural in form but also drought-tolerant and visually stunning, making it a favorite for cactus collectors and arid garden enthusiasts.

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Key Features:

• Stem: Cylindrical, ribbed, and glaucous blue-green in color

• Spines: Golden to brown, with white woolly areoles

• Growth Habit: Upright and branching – can reach several meters in natural habitat

• Flowers: Nocturnal, tubular white or cream-colored blooms; typically appear on mature plants

• Fruit: Round, pink to purple with edible pulp (rare in cultivation)

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Size & Form:

• Height: Up to 1–2 meters in pots (can reach 5–7 meters in ground)

• Spread: Moderate branching at maturity

• Trunk: Thickened, woody base forms with age

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Growing Conditions:

• Light:
  Full sun to very bright indirect light – needs at least 6–8 hours daily

• Water:

  • Spring to Summer (active growth): Water thoroughly when soil is dry

  • Autumn to Winter (dormancy): Water sparingly to avoid rot

• Soil:
  Very well-draining cactus mix (add pumice or lava rock for better aeration)

• Potting:
  Clay or plastic pots with drainage holes; size up gradually as it grows

• Temperature:
  Heat-tolerant and prefers warm climates; protect from frost (minimum 5°C)

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Care Tips:

• Avoid frequent repotting – allow roots to fill the pot

• Rotate plant periodically for upright growth

• Excellent candidate for xeriscapes, large containers, or warm indoor spaces

• Feed with diluted cactus fertilizer once a month during active growth

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Collector’s Note:

Often called the “Brazilian Tree Cactus,” Pilosocereus gounellei adds a dramatic vertical element to any cactus or succulent collection. Its fast growth and striking color make it a standout feature in both pots and landscape settings. A mature specimen with branching arms and blue-glaucous glow is a true showpiece.