Brainy Gardener

    Subscribe to Updates

    Get the latest creative news from FooBar about art, design and business.

    What's Hot

    Dudleya farinosa (Bluff Lettuce): Growing and Care Guide

    March 3, 2023

    Dudleya caespitosa (Coast Dudleya): Growing and Care Guide

    March 3, 2023

    Dudleya cymosa (Canyon Liveforever): Growing and Care Guide

    March 3, 2023
    Facebook Twitter Pinterest
    Brainy Gardener
    • Home
    • Houseplants
    • Succulents and Cacti
    • Bromeliad
    • Contact
    Brainy Gardener
    Home»Succulents and Cacti»Austrocylindropuntia Subulata (Eve’s Needle Cactus): Growing And Care Guide

    Austrocylindropuntia Subulata (Eve’s Needle Cactus): Growing And Care Guide

    By Milo MasonOctober 28, 2022
    Share
    Facebook Twitter Pinterest Email

    Austrocylindropuntia subulata is a giant, tree-like cactus that can add a splash of color to any garden.

    Eve'S Needle Cactus Stem
    Eve’s Needle Cactus stem (“File:Haría – Calle del Palmeral-LZ-10 – Austrocylindropuntia subulata 05 ies.jpg” by Frank Vincentz is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.)

    This guide will discuss how to grow Eve’s Needle Cactus from young seedlings all the way to mature cacti. Included are tips for properly watering and instructions on repotting your cactus when needed.

    in this article:

    • care
    • pruning
    • repotting
    • propagation
    • blooms
    • pests
    • common-problems

    About Austrocylindropuntia subulata 

    Austrocindropuntia subulata is an incredibly large tree-like branching succulent or cactus, growing to almost 13 feet in the wild. However, it remains much shorter in cultivation and can be kept as a potted houseplant.

    It branches heavily, dividing into multiple sections that all grow simultaneously. The trunk or stem is divided into cylindrical sections, each bearing one or two leaves. The awl-like leaves are usually yellow-ish green in color but have been known to mature into a darker green color. They can grow to a maximum length of 5 inches on mature plants.

    Related Article: Different types of Cactus Plants

    Areolas are interspersed all along the length of branches bearing one or two large yellow spines.

    This cactus is native to the Peruvian Andes, where it can be seen growing on rocky slopes or even on the sides of sandstone cliffs. However, it is undergone extensive naturalization in other areas of the world as well, like Argentina, Bolivia, and Europe.

    Botanical NameAustrocindropuntia subulata
    Common NameEve’s Needle Cactus
    FamilyCactaceae
    Plant TypeSucculent
    OriginPeruvian Andes, Bolivia, Argentina
    MaintenanceLow
    Height1-13 feet
    Width1-5 feet
    LightFull sun
    Bloom colorRed, Orange, Green
    Water needsLow
    SoilWell-Drained, Loamy, Sandy
    TolerantDeer, Drought, Rabbit
    Toxicitynon-toxic
    Hardiness (USDA)9-11

    Austrocylindropuntia subulata Care

    Eve’s Needle Cactus are hardy and easy to care for but require special attention to keep them healthy. The best way to care for this type of aloe is in pots with excellent drainage so as not to overwater the plant.

    Light

    These cacti do best in full sun or bright indirect light. They can tolerate some shade, but it will result in a shorter plant with less-vibrant coloration.

    Indoors, they need to sit by the sunniest window you can provide.

    Soil

    The best soil for Eve’s Needle Cactus is a light, sandy mix with excellent drainage. You can achieve this by combining perlite, vermiculite, or sand in your potting mix.

    Water

    The best way to water Eve’s Needle Cactus is by allowing the soil to dry out completely between watering. This way, you can always avoid the risk of overwatering or standing water.

    These plants are drought-tolerant once established and don’t need as much water as other plants. Reduce watering cadence in the winter.

    Temperature and Humidity

    The best temperature for Eve’s Needle Cactus is between 55 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. In addition, this plant is native to arid regions and does not appreciate high humidity, so keep it away from drafty windows or doors and provide plenty of airflow in your home.

    Avoid frost at all costs. It can’t handle below-freezing temperatures unless kept bone dry. Even a little bit of moisture when cold can spell disaster.

    Fertilizer

    Eve’s Needle Cactus doesn’t require fertilizer but can benefit from adding slow-release balanced fertilizer or water-soluble plant food. If you choose to fertilize your plant, only do so in the spring and summer months. It’s important not to overfeed this desert dweller, as too much nitrogen will cause it to grow faster but with less attractive growth.

    Eve'S Needle Cactus Cheat Sheet
    Eve’s Needle Cactus cheat sheet (“Austrocylindropuntia subulata” by liesvanrompaey is licensed under CC BY 4.0.)

    Pruning

    Eve’s Needle Cactus is best pruned in the springtime when it’s starting to grow. You can remove any dead or damaged stems and leaves with a sharp pair of scissors, ensuring that you don’t cut into any live portions of the plant.

    Potting and Repotting Eve’s Needle Cactus

    Austrocylindropuntia subulata can be potted in a variety of ways. If the plant is small, you can place it directly into a container with drainage holes at the bottom; for larger plants, start with a saucer and then add soil on top.

    Be sure that your cactus has enough space in its container to grow freely before placing it outside; otherwise, you may need to transplant it again later on.

    Repot in the spring or summer when the growth period is in full swing.

    Prepare

    • Prepare the pot. Use a pot at least 8 inches deep, with drainage holes in the bottom. Clay pots are preferred.
    • Prepare the soil. Use fast-draining potting soil that’s free of large particles. You can also add pumice or perlite to help improve drainage and aeration.
    • Choose the spot. Place your cactus somewhere it receives full sun or at least six hours of direct sunlight. The plant will need to be protected from strong winds and freezing temperatures.
    • Gather the tools. You’ll need a trowel, gloves, and pruning shears.

    How to Repot (Step-by-Step)

    1. Remove the cactus from its old pot. Carefully loosen the soil around it with your fingers and gently pull it out.
    2. Fill in the new pot with potting soil.
    3. Place the cactus in the center of its new pot and gently pack in more soil around it, ensuring there are no air pockets.
    4. Water thoroughly to help settle the new soil around your plant.

    Propagating Austrocylindropuntia subulata by Stem Division (Step-by-Step)

    Austrocylindropuntia subulata is incredibly easy to propagate by stem division. Select a healthy stem with plenty of pads (sections), and plant these pads separately.

    In only a couple of months, you will have juvenile specimens growing in however many pots you desire.

    1. Choose a healthy plant with many pads on it.
    2. Cut off a branch with the desired pads.
    3. Separate each pad individually and allow their cut ends to callus over for a few days.
    4. Place these pieces in a separate container filled with potting soil or sand.
    5. Water the soil or sand and place it in a warm location. Keep the soil moist.
    6. Once new roots have formed, transplant each piece of your new plant into its own pot filled with potting soil.

    Related: Astrophytum Myriostigma Var. Nudum (Bishop’s Miter): Growing And Care Guide

    Blooms

    Blooms are produced on the tips of the stems. These are usually red and orange in color and add a burst of color when they appear.

    Unfortunately, cultivated Eve’s Needle Cacti rarely flower and rarely display flowers unless particular conditions are met.

    Eve'S Needle Cactus Flowers
    Eve’s Needle Cactus flowers (“Austrocylindropuntia subulata” by liesvanrompaey is licensed under CC BY 2.0.)

    Toxicity

    Austrocylindropuntia subulata is non-toxic. However, its spines are incredibly sharp and can injure on contact. Avoid planting near pets and small children.

    NOTE: This page is not intended as a substitute for veterinary advice. The toxicity of an ingested substance varies depending on the amount ingested, the animal’s weight, and its sensitivity to specific allergens. Contact your veterinarian or local animal poison control center immediately if you think your pet may have ingested a toxic substance.

    Common Pests

    Mealybugs

    Mealybugs are a common pest in all cactus plants. They are small, white insects that will appear on the stems and leaves of your cactus. If left untreated, they can spread to other plants in your collection and cause damage. Mealybugs can be treated using neem oil or insecticidal soap.

    Scale Insects

    Scale insects are another common pest of cactus plants. They appear as small bumps on the stems and leaves of your plant. If left untreated, they can spread to other plants in your collection and cause damage. Scale insects can also be treated using neem oil or insecticidal soap.

    Spider Mites

    Spider Mites are common pests of succulents and cacti. They are tiny, red in color, and move quickly over the surface of your plant. These pests can cause yellowing or browning leaves and distorted new growth. If you see small webs on your plant’s stems or leaves, you likely have spider mites.

    AVOID

    • Overwatering
    • Placing under harsh sunlight
    • Using poorly drained potting mediums
    • Fertilizing during dormancy

    Common Problems

    • Overwatering: Too much water leads to root rot, which can kill your cactus. Ensure your pots have drainage holes so excess water can escape. If you notice standing water in any container, remove it immediately.
    • Overfertilization: Fertilizing too often can lead to a buildup of salts in your soil, killing your plant. Use water-soluble fertilizer sparingly, and only give your succulents or cacti the recommended amount. If you see yellowing leaves on your plants, this could be due to overfertilization.
    • Frost Damage: In cacti, frost damage presents as shriveling up of the plant body. If this happens to your plant, move it somewhere warmer and protect it from sudden shifts in temperature.

    FAQ

    Eve’s Needle Crest cactus can get up to 13 feet tall in the wild, but it usually stays much smaller than that if cultivated indoors.

    This cactus is sensitive to over- or under-watering, so make sure that you keep it well watered but not too wet. It also needs plenty of light and should be placed in an area with direct sunlight most of the day. You can use a grow light if necessary.

    The Eve’s needle cactus is prone to drooping, especially when it needs water or has just been moved from one location to another. It can also droop if the temperature changes quickly, such as in a drafty room. If your plant is drooping, check its soil and ensure it’s not too dry; then, give your cactus a good soak.

    1. Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants. ASPCA
    Share. Facebook Pinterest Tumblr Email
    Milo Mason

    Milo Mason is a self-proclaimed plant whisperer. With a passion for gardening, houseplants, and all things outdoors, Milo has been cultivating indoor plants for the past five years with an interest in perennials and succulents. He enjoys sharing his insights and research on plant species when it comes to care tips.

    Related Posts

    Dudleya farinosa (Bluff Lettuce): Growing and Care Guide

    Dudleya caespitosa (Coast Dudleya): Growing and Care Guide

    Dudleya cymosa (Canyon Liveforever): Growing and Care Guide

    Comments are closed.

    Don't Miss

    Dudleya farinosa (Bluff Lettuce): Growing and Care Guide

    Dudleya caespitosa (Coast Dudleya): Growing and Care Guide

    March 3, 2023

    Dudleya cymosa (Canyon Liveforever): Growing and Care Guide

    March 3, 2023

    Dudleya pulverulenta (Chalk Dudleya): Growing and Care Guide

    March 3, 2023
    About Us
    About Us

    Brainy Gardener is a gardening blog that offers practical, real-life tips and inspiration to help you know how to garden successfully. The website has in depth, well written and clear articles on all sorts of topics and plants, from hydroponics to specific plants like daisies or succulents, houseplants, plant problems

    Email Us: info@brainygardener.com

    Our Picks

    Stem Rot: A Common but Devastating Disease for Garden Plants

    February 1, 2023

    Say Goodbye to Rust Diseases: A Comprehensive Guide for Houseplant Owners

    January 31, 2023

    The Healthy Houseplant Handbook: All About Bacterial Leaf Spot

    January 30, 2023

    Subscribe to Updates

    Get the latest gardening tips from Brainy Gardener.

    © 2023 BrainyGardener.com. All rights reserved.
    • Home
    • Privacy Policy
    • Disclaimer
    • Terms of Use
    • Contact

    Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.