Blue candle cactus is a fast-growing succulent that grows well indoors or outside. Its attractive shape can make it the focal point of many types of landscapes.
The plant will not produce branches until maturity, but when it does, it will resemble a candelabra (hence its name): the result will be stunning. But what more should you learn about Blue Candle Cactus?
Keep reading this essential guide if you want to get all the information you need to grow this gorgeous succulent!
| Botanical Name | Myrtillocactus Geometrizans |
| Common Name | Blue Candle Cactus or Blue Myrtle Cactus |
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Flower Color | The plant produces creamy yellow to white flowers when it is at least two inches in height in March. The white flowers will turn dark red before fading. |
| Size When Mature | Between 13 and 16 inches tall. |
| Bloom Time | Spring |
| Sun Requirements | Full Sun |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | 9-11 |
| Soil PH Range | 5.0 to 6.5 |
| Soil Type | Slightly acidic, well-draining, and sandy |
| Water Needs | Low |
| Native Area | Mexico |
What you Need to Know About Blue Candle Cactus
One of the most attractive characteristics of the Blue Candle cactus (besides its aesthetic appeal) is its ability to grow fast. So, unlike other succulents (which can take several years to develop), your blue candle may reach maturity sooner than you expect.
And it will do so with minimal effort from your side. Its columnar shape becomes thick and develops multiple stems as the plant grows, in a stunning effect.
The plant isn’t toxic to animals and humans. However, if pets munch on it frequently, they might get gastrointestinal issues. Also, because of its size (and hazard), we recommend you plant it within a safe distance from where kids play in your garden.
How to Care for Blue Candle Cactus
As we already mentioned, the blue candle cactus is an easy-to-grow succulent. However, that doesn’t mean you should not learn about its needs and requirements. We made everything easier for you by collecting all you need to know about caring for a thriving Blue Candle cactus in this essential guide.
Light
Unlike other succulents, you shouldn’t expose your Blue Candle cactus to direct sun when young. Instead, find a sheltered location to avoid burning them. You can move them to a spot that receives full sun as the plant matures.
Water and Soil Needs
Blue Candle cactus aren’t heavy feeders. Indeed, they are drought-resistant and will not tolerate soggy soils, which will cause rotting and attract deadly fungal infections.
To avoid overwatering, only add extra moisture when the soil dries completely. Also, don’t forget to reduce watering during the winter, when your succulent will go dormant (and won’t need as many nutrients).
Plant your succulent in a suitable potting mix. You can also add gravel or sand to the mixture to improve drainage. Ensure you plant your Blue Candle cactus in a container that can accommodate its growth. Still, you may have to re-pot your succulent every couple of years!
Temperature Requirements
As with most succulents, the Blue Candle cactus doesn’t like low temperatures. Outdoors, the plant thrives year-round in USDA hardiness zones between 9 and 12.
However, you can also grow it as a houseplant. All you have to do is place it next to a window where it will receive adequate sunlight. Avoid exposing your Blue Candle to temperatures below 50°F: your plant will unlikely survive such conditions!
Fertilizer
While it is not mandatory, you can feed your cactus with a suitable succulent fertilizer during the growing phase (spring and summer). Doing so will boost its growth and ensure your plant gets all the nutrients it needs to stay healthy.
Common Diseases
These Cactus aren’t susceptible to most diseases, making it an ideal choice for people who don’t want to spend too much effort growing their plants. However, you must be careful with watering! Also, if you notice something off with your plant, ensure you take prompt action to contain (or prevent) infestations.
Blue Candle Cactus Propagation
You can propagate your Blue Candle Cactus from seeds or stem cuttings. The latter is the most effective method, with the highest probability of success. All you have to do is take some healthy stems and let their surfaces dry out (it usually takes up to 3 weeks) before planting them into the soil.
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