Myrtillocactus geometrizans


Myrtillocactus geometrizans is a species of cactus in the genus Myrtillocactus, native to central and northern Mexico.

Description

Myrtillocactus geometrizans is a large shrubby cactus growing to 4–5 m tall, with candelabra-like branching on mature plants. The individual stems are 6–10 cm diameter, with five ribs, with areoles spaced 1.5–3 cm apart. The flowers are creamy white, 2–2.5 cm diameter. The fruit is an edible dark purple berry 1–2 cm diameter, superficially resembling Vaccinium myrtillus fruit; both the scientific and English names derive from this resemblance.

Cultivation

It is a popular species in cultivation, where young plants commonly remain unbranched for many years. The fruit is edible, and sold for consumption in Mexico.
The Bilberry Cactus is fast growing, and is often used as grafting stock because of this. With favourable conditions it can reach heights of up to 15 feet.
The fukurokuyuzinboku cultivar, commonly known as "Titty Cactus" or "Breast Cactus," has unusually plump ribs shaped like human breasts.