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Borzicactus plagiostoma

Oblique-Mouth Borzicactus

Overview

Borzicactus plagiostoma is a rare, columnar cactus species native to the arid valleys of South America 1. Notable for its dense spination and uniquely asymmetric flowers, it is highly valued by succulent collectors and desert plant enthusiasts alike.

Taxonomy and naming

Originally described under the genus Cleistocactus as Cleistocactus plagiostoma, taxonomic revisions have placed it within the genus Borzicactus 2. The specific epithet 'plagiostoma' originates from Greek terms meaning 'oblique mouth', referring to the characteristic slanted opening of its tubular flowers.

Natural distribution and habitat

This species is endemic to northern Peru, particularly restricted to the Cajamarca region 1. It thrives in dry, rocky shrublands and steep canyon walls at elevations ranging from 1000 to 2200 meters above sea level, where air circulation is high and soil moisture is scarce.

Appearance

It features cylindrical, green stems that can grow up to 1 meter tall, either erect or sprawling. The stems possess 10 to 15 distinct ribs covered in greyish felted areoles. The spines are dense, sharp, and vary in color from golden yellow to dark brown. The tubular flowers are deep red or purplish, displaying a distinctive tilted or oblique rim 2.

Care in culture

In cultivation, Borzicactus plagiostoma requires maximum sunlight and exceptionally well-draining mineral soil. Water thoroughly during the hot spring and summer months only after the substrate has completely dried out. In winter, keep the plant dry and cool to encourage dormancy.

Common care mistakes

Overwatering and placing the plant in heavy, clay-rich soil are the most common causes of root rot 1. Lack of adequate sunlight will cause the stems to stretch abnormally and lose their dense golden spination.

References

  1. Plants of the World Online (POWO), Kew Royal Botanic Gardens. ↩
  2. Anderson, E. F. (2001). The Cactus Family. Timber Press. ↩
Light

Full Sun

Requires full sun; at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to maintain compact growth and robust spine density.

Watering

8-30 Days

Soak thoroughly when the soil is completely dry in spring and summer. Keep almost completely dry in winter.

Soil

Well-drained cactus soil mix with pumice and coarse sand

Coarse, porous mineral mix containing pumice, perlite, and coarse sand with very little organic matter.

Safety

Contact/Ingestion Risk

Armed with very sharp, dense spines. Keep out of reach of children and domestic pets.

Difficulty

Moderate

Moderate. Easy to care for if kept dry and sunny, but very sensitive to stagnant wet soil.

Native Habitat

Peru (Northern Peru, Cajamarca)

Endemic to the dry inter-Andean valleys of northern Peru. It grows in rocky cliffs and gravelly slopes under intense solar radiation and minimal rainfall.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I water Borzicactus plagiostoma?
In summer, water only when the soil is completely dry (about every 7-10 days). In winter, almost entirely suspend watering, providing a light splash once a month at most.
Which potting soil should I use?
Use a well-draining cactus mix containing 50-60% inorganic matter such as pumice, lava rock, and coarse sand to prevent root rot.
Is Borzicactus plagiostoma toxic to pets?
While not chemically toxic, its dense and sharp spines present a physical hazard to curious pets and children.
What are its sunlight requirements?
It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Insufficient light causes the plant to stretch (etiolate) and reduces spine density.
When does Borzicactus plagiostoma bloom?
With adequate sunlight and proper winter dormancy, it produces reddish-purple, oblique tubular flowers in late spring and summer.
Is it cold hardy?
It can tolerate brief drops down to -2°C (28°F) if dry, but it is best kept in a cool, dry room above 5-10°C (41-50°F) during winter.
When should I repot it?
Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Use thick leather gloves to protect your hands from the dense spines during the process.
The base of my cactus is turning yellow and soft, what should I do?
This is a sign of root rot due to overwatering. Stop watering immediately, remove the plant from its pot, and cut away any decayed roots.
How fast does it grow?
It has a slow to moderate growth rate, typical of columnar cacti, growing only a few centimeters per year under optimal conditions.
Should I fertilize it during summer?
Yes, applying a half-strength cactus fertilizer once a month during spring and summer supports healthy growth and flowering.