Light
Bright Indirect Light
Requires bright, indirect sunlight; avoid direct midday rays to prevent stem scorching.
Reference image Lymanbensonia choquequiraensis
Choquequirao Forest Cactus
Overview
Lymanbensonia choquequiraensis is a rare epiphytic or lithophytic cactus belonging to the family Cactaceae, native to the dramatic canyon slopes of Peru 1. Unlike desert cacti, it thrives in dry forest microclimates with filtered light.
Classification and Naming
Named after the famous Choquequirao archaeological site in Peru, this species belongs to the genus Lymanbensonia, which resides within the tribe Rhipsalideae 1. It is closely related to Pfeiffera and Lepismium 2.
Distribution and Habitat
It is endemic to the Apurímac river valley in southern Peru, growing at elevations of 1,500 to 2,500 meters 1. It typically grows on vertical rock faces or clinging to dry forest vegetation.
Appearance
The plant features flattened, segmented green stems with slightly notched margins. Small, delicate cream or white flowers emerge from the marginal areoles 2, followed by small fleshy fruits.
Cultivation and Care
This species prefers bright indirect light and an airy, porous substrate. Water thoroughly only after the top few centimeters of soil have dried. It benefits from moderate ambient humidity.
Common Cultivation Mistakes
Overwatering is the primary cause of root rot in this species. Keeping it in dense, heavy soil or exposing it to intense, direct midday sun will damage the delicate stems and stunt growth.
Bibliography
References
Watering
7-18 Days
Water when the upper half of the potting medium is dry; do not let it sit in water.
Soil
Well-drained, airy cactus mix with perlite, pumice, and coco coir
An open, airy mix of cactus soil with extra perlite, pumice, or orchid bark is ideal.
Safety
Pet Friendly
Non-toxic to pets and humans, making it a safe choice for indoor collections.
Difficulty
Moderate
Moderate; requires a balance between typical cactus drought care and forest humidity.
Native Habitat
Peru (South America)
Native to the Andean dry shrublands and rocky cliffs near the Choquequirao archaeological complex in Peru, growing as a lithophyte.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of cactus is Lymanbensonia choquequiraensis?
Unlike desert cacti, it is an epiphytic or lithophytic forest cactus that grows cascading down rocky cliffs and trees in semi-dry Andean valleys.
Is it toxic to pets?
No, Lymanbensonia choquequiraensis is non-toxic to pets, making it safe to grow around cats and dogs.
How often should it be watered?
Water it when the topsoil dry out (about once a week in summer). Reduce watering during winter dormancy to once every 18-20 days.
What soil mix does it prefer?
It prefers a highly porous, airy mixture of cactus soil amended with pumice, perlite, and a small amount of orchid bark.
Does it need direct sunlight?
No, direct scorching sunlight can burn its stems. It thrives best in bright, filtered, or indirect light.
How fast does it grow?
It has a moderate growth rate, pushing out new stem segments during spring and summer if provided with proper light, humidity, and nutrients.
When does it bloom?
Once mature and after a cool winter rest, it produces small, delicate cream-white flowers from its areoles in spring or early summer.
When should it be repotted?
Repot it every 2-3 years in early spring, only when the roots have completely filled the pot, moving up to a slightly larger size.
What winter temperature can it tolerate?
It can tolerate minimum temperatures down to 8°C (46°F). It is frost-sensitive and should be kept indoors during freezing weather.
What causes the stems to shrivel?
Shriveling is usually caused by severe dehydration or root rot, which prevents the plant from absorbing water despite moist soil.