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.