Quiabentia verticillata is one of my all-time favourite plants. I first came across this species (the only one in the monotypic genus) while clearing a large collection of cacti, and completely fell in love with it. This is a cactus that forms a distinct woody trunk once mature, from which protrude both glochids (tiny spines) produced from bright white areoles AND bright green succulent leaves. It is similar to species of Pereskia, and because of the areoles and glochids, somewhat resembles an Opuntia too, which in my opinion, makes it unusual and fascinating.
The plant originates from Brazil, Argentina, Bolivia and Paraguay. It can reach up to 15 meters in habitat given enough space for the shallow roots to spread out. The flowers are bright red and also have glochids. The branches spread at different angles from the main stem and start off succulent and green, becoming woody over time.
Having grown many of these plants since January 2023, they are very easy to maintain and they grow rather quickly. They are very drought tolerant, but because of the succulent leaves, it is easy to see when they are dehydrated. Within hours of giving a thorough soaking, the wrinkled leaves and stems will puff back up again into their thick, succulent best.
Quiabentia verticillata prefers a gritty, sandy soil, but is easy to grow in most cactus soils providing the drainage is adequate. pH levels are not a major problem as the plant is very tolerant of most conditions but generally a pH level of around 6–7 is best. In terms of temperature requirements, they are not completely cold hardy, but if kept dry can tolerate lower temperatures for short periods of time. The best conditions for fast growth are 10°C or more.
When visiting Kew Gardens last year, I noticed a very large specimen and was amazed to see the size of it.
Text and photos by Hayley Stephens
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