PlantFiles: Acanthocereus
Acanthocereus tetragonus 'Fairy Castle'

Seem to be rather common in the succulent part of the box retail stores.

A very interesting cactus. Mine likes filtered light. The mature arms start to turn red or tan when subjected to direct sunlight for a day's duration.

A very positive experience.One of the first cacti i ever bought and still have it 25 or so years later. Always in a pot but it could be ground safe. Likes to be consistently fertilized during the growing season.The only caveats is that snails and slugs will ruin it muy pronto. Indoors watch for mealys. A tough little plant.

This genus/species has been reclassified as an "Acanthocereus". And, it is Not a monstrose or cristate form of the species. A Dwarf form would be a closer description.

This is a very interesting little plant. Here is a good description given by The Cactus Collection/Altman Plants:

"Cereus tetragonus cv. 'Fairy Castle' is charming miniature form of Cereus tetragonus. The type species, native to Brazil, is a branching green columnar cactus to 6' in height. A cultivar occurs when an environmental or other factor causes changes in a plant. A cultivar is not a hybrid, it is rather a change in the DNA of the cells of one unique plant. The diminutive cultivar 'Fairy Castle' was discovered in cultivation, and will grow slowly to several feet in height. The main stem is five sided, with short spines along the ribs, and offsets profusely to form smaller upright branches which, in turn, offset profusely with smaller offsets. Overall effect is of a "castle" shape, with literally hundreds of branches and branchlets. Prefers warmer winter temperatures. Porous cactus soil with adequate drainage. Bright, filtered light with ample airflow. Water thoroughly when soil is dry to the touch. Protect from frost. "