Weberbauerocereus johnsonii – Andean Columnar Cactus with Striking Spines

Weberbauerocereus johnsonii – Andean Columnar Cactus with Striking Spines

Weberbauerocereus johnsonii is a tall, columnar cactus native to the high-altitude regions of the Andes in South America. It is particularly noted for its dense golden spines, which contrast beautifully against its ribbed green stems. This species thrives in arid mountainous habitats and produces stunning nocturnal flowers, which attract pollinators such as bats and moths.

Distinctive Features

• Columnar Growth: Forms tall, upright stems that can reach several metres in height.
• Golden Spines: Covered in dense, sharp yellow to golden spines that provide protection from herbivores and intense sunlight.
• Nocturnal Blooms: Produces large, funnel-shaped flowers that open at night, often white or pale yellow, with a sweet fragrance.

Care Tips

• Light: Prefers full sun for optimal growth and spine development.
• Water: Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; water sparingly in winter.
• Humidity: Thrives in dry conditions; avoid excessive humidity.
• Media: Well-draining cactus mix with sand or perlite.
• Temperature: Tolerates mild frost but prefers temperatures above 5°C.
• Fertiliser: Apply diluted cactus fertiliser during the growing season.
• Repotting: Repot every few years to refresh soil and accommodate growth.

Additional Notes

• Slow-growing but can become quite large over time.
• Spines can be very sharp—handle with care.
• Flowers are short-lived but appear multiple times in the growing season.
• Not known to be toxic, but the spines pose a risk of injury.

Weberbauerocereus johnsonii is an impressive cactus that adds an architectural element to collections. Its combination of golden spines and elegant nocturnal blooms makes it a standout species for enthusiasts and collectors of Andean flora.