Polaskia chende - Cactus

Polaskia chende is a cactus species native to Mexico, with a columnar form, an erect and branching habit. It stands out for its imposing silhouette, its grey-green stems segmented into prominent midribs, and its distinct thorny areoles. With its short trunk and branches freely developing at the top, it offers a sculptural and elegant semi-tree-like appearance. Undemanding and highly resilient, it thrives in a well-draining substrate under intense light.

Belonging to the Cactaceae family, Polaskia chende is an endemic cactus of the semi-arid regions of southern Mexico, particularly in the states of Oaxaca and Puebla. Its natural habitat consists of rocky hills and arid terrain, where it grows in dense colonies. It can reach 5 to 6 metres in height in its natural environment, though its size is more modest in cultivation, typically 1.50 to 2 metres in pots. This cactus develops columnar structures that partially turn woody at the base, sometimes forming a small woody trunk. The thick, erect stems are segmented into 7 to 9 prominent midribs, with areoles nearly touching on young shoots, spaced about 2 cm apart on older stems. The thorns are initially yellowish-brown and turn grey with age. Flowering usually occurs between August and January in its natural habitat, producing campanulate white to slightly pink flowers, measuring about 3 to 4 cm long. These actinomorphic flowers emit a subtle fragrance. After pollination, round, deep purple-red fruits appear, measuring about 3.5 to 4 cm in diameter, containing juicy pulp and shiny black seeds. These edible and slightly sweet fruits are part of the traditional food culture in some regions of Mexico.

This cactus integrates perfectly into a composition with other columnar cacti such as Pachycereus pringlei or Stenocereus thurberi, creating a harmonious desert atmosphere. It can also be paired with compact succulents like Echeveria or Agave parryi for an interesting contrast.