Blue Myrtle Cactus Major

Plant Type: Cacti
Plant Height: 1-3 feet
Spread: 1-2 feet
Flower Color: pink to red
Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Partial Shade

Blue Myrtle Cactus 'Fat' (Myrtillocactus geometrizans 'Fat') – A Bold and Unique Addition to Phoenix Gardens

The Blue Myrtle Cactus 'Fat', scientifically known as Myrtillocactus geometrizans 'Fat', is a robust and visually striking cactus that is perfect for adding architectural interest to Phoenix Valley landscapes. Native to Mexico, this cactus is a variety of the standard Myrtillocactus geometrizans, featuring thicker, more substantial stems that give it a bold, tree-like structure as it matures.

Bold Blue-Green Stems and Impressive Growth

The Blue Myrtle Cactus 'Fat' is particularly admired for its thick, upright stems that boast a unique blue-green hue. These stems are ribbed with small areoles that produce spines, though the spines are small and unobtrusive, allowing the cactus’s color and structure to shine. The ‘Fat’ variety of this cactus is more substantial in form, typically growing to about 1 to 3 feet in height, but capable of reaching taller heights when grown in the ground under optimal conditions. It spreads about 1 to 2 feet, eventually forming a branching, tree-like structure that stands out in any landscape.

Stunning Spring Blooms and Edible Fruit

In the spring, the Blue Myrtle Cactus 'Fat' produces small, pink to red flowers, followed by edible, dark purple fruits. These fruits are often compared to blueberries in both taste and appearance, giving this cactus its common name. The edible fruits add another layer of interest to this already captivating plant.

Perfect for Phoenix Xeriscaping

This cactus is perfectly suited to the hot, arid conditions of the Phoenix Valley. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and water-wise landscapes. Once established, the Blue Myrtle Cactus 'Fat' is drought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering—ideal for the low-water gardening needs of the desert climate. In colder parts of the valley, it can be grown in containers and brought indoors during the winter to protect it from frost.

Why Choose the Blue Myrtle Cactus 'Fat'?

• Bold, blue-green stems create a striking, sculptural appearance
• Drought-tolerant and perfect for low-maintenance gardens
• Edible fruit adds an extra layer of interest and appeal
• Thrives in the sunny, dry conditions of the Phoenix Valley
• Versatile for use in rock gardens, xeriscapes, or as a container plant on patios and balconies

Ideal for Desert Landscapes in the Phoenix Valley

Whether you're creating a drought-tolerant landscape or looking to add a focal point to your garden, the Blue Myrtle Cactus 'Fat' is a top choice for gardeners in the Phoenix Valley. Its striking blue-green stems, tree-like structure, and low-maintenance nature make it an excellent addition to desert gardens and succulent collections.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Blue Myrtle Cactus Major

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth)
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or rocky soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil is preferred)
• Spacing: Space plants 4-5 feet apart to allow for optimal growth and air circulation as this cactus can grow tall and wide
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: No staking required; Blue Myrtle Cactus Major grows upright with a columnar shape, eventually reaching heights of 6-8 feet

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil, but ensure that the soil drains well to avoid waterlogging
• Frequency: Water every 3-4 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 1 inch of water per session to ensure deep watering around the roots

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Blue Myrtle Cactus Major is considered established after 3-4 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil and the cactus begins showing steady new growth

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 7-10 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 5-7 days. Provide 1.5-2 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 3-4 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall. Blue Myrtle Cactus Major is drought-tolerant once established but still benefits from occasional deep watering during dry winter periods.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 12-18 inches away from the base of the plant to ensure that water reaches the root zone and encourages deep root growth. Avoid wetting the cactus body to prevent rot.
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 1-2 gallons per hour for slow, deep watering. This ensures that water penetrates deeply into the soil and supports the growth of a strong root system.
• Number of Emitters: Place 1-2 emitters around the base of each cactus to ensure even water distribution around the root zone. Adjust the number of emitters as the cactus matures.
• Irrigation Zone: Set up a dedicated irrigation zone for Blue Myrtle Cactus Major and other drought-tolerant plants to ensure they receive the specific water requirements they need. This will allow you to adjust the watering schedule and duration based on their needs.
• Adjusting Frequency: In the summer, you may need to increase watering frequency to every 5-7 days to ensure hydration, especially during high temperatures. In winter, reduce watering to every 3-4 weeks, or adjust based on rainfall.

General Watering Tips:

• Soil Check: Check the soil moisture regularly. Water when the top 2-3 inches of soil feel dry to the touch.
• Avoid Overwatering: Blue Myrtle Cactus Major is sensitive to overwatering. Ensure the soil drains well and avoid standing water around the base of the cactus, which can cause root rot.
• Mulch: Apply a thin layer of mulch around the base to help retain moisture and keep the roots cool, but avoid placing mulch directly against the cactus body to prevent rot.