Eve's Needle Cactus
The Eve's needle cactus grows up to 13 feet tall and 10 feet wide with deep green leaves. It develops yellowish-red spines as it matures and occasionally blooms with long, coppery red flowers. Native to Peru, Ecuador, Argentina, and Bolivia, it is suitable for containers, raised beds, cactus gardens, and atriums. Eve's Needle Cactus is branch and tree like specimen of the cacti family. It can grow up to four meters tall and has a very distinct cactus look to it! Once the plant has rooted properly it requires very little care and grows relatively fast.
Plant Care Guides
Thirst:
These plants enjoy more water than your standard cacti but you still want to reduce water during the winter months and wait until it's practically bone dry to touch
Light Level:
Thrives in full sun to light shade
Temp/Humidity:
Anything between 25 to 35 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil Medium:
A well draining soil preferably for cactus or succulents should work nicely. Eve's Needle Cactus likes soil that is extremely well-draining. Your plant shouldn't need added fertilizers if you repot each time it doubles in size.
Eve's Needle Cactus is a super popular houseplant ? that is isn’t challenging to grow and needs very little water to thrive. They do best in long-lasting, direct light ☀️ and should be less than 1 foot from a window.
In case of damage from frost in winter, trim the frozen parts down to live wood, and it will bounce back during the spring and summer seasons.
Common Issues
- Overwatering: The most common problem for Eve Needle Cactus is overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Always ensure the soil is dry before watering.
- Pests: Occasionally, this cactus can attract pests such as mealybugs or spider mites. Treat infestations with a gentle insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Sunburn: Although it loves sunlight, sudden exposure to intense light can cause sunburn. Gradually acclimate your cactus to direct sunlight if it's been in lower light conditions.
With the right care, the Eve Needle Cactus can be a striking and resilient addition to your plant collection. Its unique appearance and low-maintenance nature make it an ideal choice for cactus enthusiasts and beginners alike.
The Eve Needle Cactus, also known as Austrocylindropuntia subulata, is a unique and striking plant that can be a great addition to your indoor or outdoor garden. Known for its tall, columnar shape and long, needle-like spines, this cactus is relatively easy to care for, making it suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners.
Light Requirements
Eve Needle Cactus thrives in bright, direct sunlight. Ideally, it should receive at least six hours of sunlight each day. If you are growing it indoors, placing it near a south-facing window is recommended. If the light is insufficient, consider supplementing with a grow light to ensure the cactus receives enough energy to grow.
Watering
Like most cacti, the Eve Needle Cactus does not require frequent watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. During the growing season (spring and summer), water every two to three weeks. In the dormant period (fall and winter), reduce watering to once a month or less.
Soil
Well-draining soil is crucial for the health of an Eve Needle Cactus. Use a cactus or succulent potting mix that contains sand or perlite to ensure proper drainage. If you're planting in a pot, make sure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
Temperature and Humidity
This cactus prefers warm temperatures and low humidity. It thrives in temperatures between 60°F and 85°F (15°C to 29°C). While it can tolerate cooler temperatures, it should be protected from frost. If you live in a region with cold winters, consider bringing your cactus indoors during the colder months.
Fertilizing
Fertilize your Eve Needle Cactus during its growing season with a diluted, balanced cactus fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer every four to six weeks. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant period, as the cactus is not actively growing and does not require additional nutrients.
Pruning and Repotting
Pruning is generally not necessary for Eve Needle Cactus, but you can trim it to control its size or shape if needed. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant. Repotting should be done every two to three years, or when the cactus outgrows its current pot. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and refresh the soil with a new cactus mix.
