Care and maintenance of Pilosocereus azureus – Blue columnar cactus

The Pilosocereus azureus , better known as the blue columnar cactus , is a fascinating cactus that impresses with its unique blue color and impressive columnar shape. This cactus originates from the warmer regions of South America, including Brazil and Mexico, where it grows under extreme conditions. Despite its exotic appearance, the blue columnar cactus is surprisingly easy to care for, which makes it popular among cactus lovers.

The Pilosocereus azureus likes a sunny spot. Place it in a spot where it gets at least six hours of direct sunlight per day, for example on a south-facing windowsill or in a conservatory. Outside, it can also be placed in a sunny spot on the terrace during the summer months. Make sure the cactus is protected from prolonged rainfall, as it does not tolerate excess water.

The key to successfully caring for this cactus is good drainage. Use a special cactus soil or a mix of potting soil and sand to ensure that water can drain quickly. Water it when the soil is completely dry, usually every two to four weeks, depending on the season. In the winter, when the cactus is dormant, watering can be drastically reduced or even stopped.

The blue column cactus does not need frequent fertilization. During the growing season (spring and summer) you can feed it once a month with a diluted cactus fertilizer. Pruning is rarely necessary, but if the cactus becomes too large or if there are damaged parts, you can carefully remove them with a sterile knife.

In terms of temperature, the Pilosocereus azureus is used to heat and dryness. It can tolerate temperatures down to about 10°C, but it does best in temperatures between 18°C ​​and 30°C. In colder climates, it should be kept indoors during the winter to prevent frost damage.