Neoraimondia herzogiana – Rare Columnar Cactus with Towering Form
Neoraimondia herzogiana (Backeb.) Buxb. and Krainz is a dramatic, long-lived columnar cactus native to Bolivia and northern Argentina. Known for its thick, ribbed stems and some of the longest spines in the cactus family, this architectural cactus thrives in bright sun and dry air. It produces striking pinkish-white funnel-shaped flowers in summer, followed by edible fruits prized in local cultures. With mature heights of up to 6 m in cultivation and over 10 m in habitat, it’s a true landmark plant for collectors of rare, sun-loving cacti.
Why Neoraimondia herzogiana Deserves a Place in Your Collection
- Massive Presence: Reaches up to 6 m tall in cultivation with upright, candelabra-style branching
- Extraordinary Spines: Areoles bear 3–5 central spines (6–10 cm) and 7–10 radial spines (1–2 cm)
- Flowering Display: Produces funnel-shaped pinkish-white blooms up to 6 cm wide, followed by ovoid, edible fruit
- Rare and Collectible: A true South American desert giant, rarely offered in cultivation
Native Habitat and Botanical Background
- Origin: Bolivia (Cochabamba, Chuquisaca, Santa Cruz, Tarija) and northern Argentina
- Elevation: Naturally found between 600–1,900 m on dry rocky slopes
- Climate: Subtropical desert with intense light and seasonal rainfall
- Pollination: Flowers attract hummingbirds and moths in habitat
Growth Rate and Lifespan
- Growth Speed: Moderate – up to 30 cm per year in full sun
- Longevity: Can live for several decades with minimal intervention
- Indoor Size: Up to 2 m in pots with strong light and space to grow
Neoraimondia herzogiana Care Guide
Light
- Requires full sun – place in a south-facing window or outdoor full-sun position
- Acclimate gradually if moving from low light to avoid sunburn
Watering
- Water deeply only when the soil is completely dry
- Reduce to minimal watering in winter to support dormancy
Soil
- Use a very fast-draining mix with sand and perlite
- Always plant in containers with proper drainage holes
Temperature
- Optimal growth: 20–30 °C
- Minimum: Protect from temperatures below 5 °C
Fertilization
- Feed monthly during the growing season with a low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer
- No feeding in autumn or winter
Repotting and Support
- Repot every 2–3 years in spring using a heavy clay or stone pot for stability
- Stake tall specimens to prevent tipping in containers
Common Problems and Solutions
Root Rot
- Cause: Watering too frequently or poor soil
- Solution: Ensure complete drying and switch to a coarse, fast-draining mix
Sunburn
- Cause: Sudden exposure after low-light growth
- Solution: Slowly increase light over 7–10 days
Pests
- Risk: Spider mites, mealybugs
- Treatment: Use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or introduce beneficial insects
Propagation and Uses
- Propagation: Via seed or stem cuttings (allow to callous before planting)
- Fruit: Edible; consumed by locals in its native range
- Wood: Occasionally used in light carpentry in Bolivia
Etymology
- Genus: Honors Antonio Raimondi, Italian-Peruvian geographer and botanist
- Species: Named after Theodor Herzog, German botanist and Bolivian flora specialist
FAQs – Neoraimondia herzogiana
- Can I grow this cactus indoors?Yes, but only with full sun or strong grow lights
- Is it pet-safe?Yes, but keep out of reach due to sharp spines
- How tall will it get indoors?Usually up to 2 meters; more in greenhouses or sunrooms
Order Neoraimondia herzogiana – A Sculptural Cactus for Serious Collectors
Massive structure, fierce spines, and rare blooms — Neoraimondia herzogiana is a true cactus monument. Add bold vertical impact and rare collector’s value to your collection. Order now and bring home a legendary columnar cactus.
Neoraimondia herzogiana (Backeb.) Buxb. and KrainzPublished in: Buxb. and Krainz, Städtische Sukkulentensammlung Zürich Katalog, p. 89 (1967)Basionym: Neocardenasia herzogiana Backeb.
Neoraimondia herzogiana
Neoraimondia herzogiana is approximately 45 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 17 cm pot.