Stetsonia coryne

The Stetsonia coryne is the only species of the genus Stetsonia. Eventually, it grows into a massive, tree-like columnar cactus. Many travel to the hot desert regions of Argentina to view these striking plants.

At full maturity, this species reaches an approximate height of 10' - 33'! Each areola sports between 6 - 9 spines of unequal length. Spines range from 2" - 4" in length, are straight, sturdy and sharp enough to be used as toothpicks ("Toothpick Cactus"). Stems are deeply ribbed. New growth is first purplish to blue-green, turning olive green with time.

The Stetsonia coryne sports stunning, showy and large flowers. Flowers take on a unique white/tinted pink color. Despite opening at night, the flowers remain open until mid-morning. Blooming season occurs between spring to summer. Fruit is edible.

The fruit of this species is edible! Fruits appear during the later summer months. Skin is smooth and has a lemon-like flavor. The black seeds within the white pulp are usually cooked, but can be eaten raw. Animals extract water by chewing on the the body of this cactus. Additionally, this species is used as living fences, spines are used as needles and its wood is used to make furniture.

Attributes:

Centerpiece plant-

1. Bold appearance
2. Beautiful spines
3. Showy, large flowers

Edible fruit-

1. Produces edible, delicious fruit
2. Lemon-like flavor
3. Fruit can be eaten raw or cooked

Many uses-

1. Living fences
2. Spines used as needles
3. Wood is used to make furniture.

Synonyms:

Cereus coryne Hort.Berol. ex Salm-Dyck
Stetsonia coryne var. procera F.Ritter