Austrocylindropuntia Subulata
Austrocylindropuntia subulata is commonly known as Eve’s pin cactus. Native Peruvians commonly used the long and sharp thorns as needles. They also took advantage of these thorns by using the cacti as living fences to protect from intruders.
Today, in our region, it’s commonly used as an ornamental indoor or outdoor plant. Other than its long thorns, its interesting features include its long leaves, pinecone-like tubercles, and towering height once mature.
Botanical name: Austrocylindropuntia subulata
Other names: Cylindropuntia subulata, Eve’s needle, Eve’s needle cactus, Eve’s pin, Eve’s pin cactus
Austrocylindropuntia subulata in detail
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Austrocylindropuntia Subulata Appearance
Austrocylindropuntia subulata is a columnar cactus made of many tall and narrow stems. It may grow to over 10 feet tall, but it will likely be much shorter outside of its natural habitat in South America.
Old specimens eventually form a dark-colored wooden trunk.
The stems are evergreen and covered in long, sharp thorns as well as short, hooked-shaped thorns. It also has unusual succulent leaves that are 3-5 inches long that grow towards the top of the stems.
Rare showy flowers are orange, red, or yellow. Followed by red edible fruits.
Austrocylindropuntia Subulata Landscaping Tips
Austrocylindropuntia subulata looks great in containers, which also allow for transfer to the indoors during frost.
Does not perform well during below frost temperatures.
Be careful not to overwater, especially in the winter.
Peruvians traditionally used this plant as a living fence or natural barrier.
Edible leaves and fruits.
Thorns are very sharp. Handle with care and keep from areas with heavy traffic.
Austrocylindropuntia Subulata Origin
Warm and dry regions of the Andes mountains in South America
Austrocylindropuntia Subulata Care
Soil: Loose, well draining soil that is lightly fertile.
Temperature: Can withstand temperatures down to frost (= 32 degrees) for a short period of time.
Water: Occasional, deep watering. Allow the soil to completely dry out between waterings. Either use a moisture meter or stick your finger through the soil to gauge the moisture level. It’s better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering.
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Austrocylindropuntia subulata for sale at the nursery
Austrocylindropuntia Subulata Problems
Pests: Austrocylindropuntia subulata has minimal pests. Fungal diseases from root rot, dry rot, and harsh weather conditions.
Signs of overwatering: Drooping, squishy texture
Signs of too little water: Shriveling, drying skin
Signs of too much sun: Burning, scarring, fading color
Signs of too little sun: Etiolation, discoloring
Austrocylindropuntia Subulata Propagation
Propagate Eve’s pin by removing and relocating stems/offsets.
FAQ
How much does Austrocylindropuntia subulata cost?
At our nursery, Austrocylindropuntia subulata costs $15 for a 1 gallon container, $45 for a 5 gallon container, and $150 for a 15 gallon container.
Prices are subject to change. Please contact us for the most up-to-date information on pricing. We may have larger sizes available. We provide installation services locally at a separate cost.
Can I grow Austrocylindropuntia subulata outside?
Yes, if you live in a warm and dry region. Protect from frost.
How can I encourage my Eve’s pin cactus to bloom?
Eve’s pin cactus rarely blooms outside of its native habitat. The best way to encourage Eve’s pin cactus to bloom is by growing it outdoors in the ground rather than in a container. Ensure that it gets abundant sunlight during the summer. Protect from extreme heat and below freezing temperatures. Provide light fertilizer.
SUMMARY
| SIZE (H X W) | 12 feet X 4 feet |
|---|---|
| FLOWER COLOR | Orange, Red, Yellow |
| FLOWER SEASON | Spring |
| EXPOSURE | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| WATER | Low |
| GROWTH RATE | Moderate |
| HARDINESS | 32º F, USDA Zone 9 |
| PRUNING | None |