You might know trichocereus bridgesii forma monstrose inermis as the “Penis Plant.” This rare cactus has smooth, round stems. It often does not have spines, so it looks different from other cacti. Some of these plants can grow up to 35 cm tall. They have odd and uneven shapes called monstrose forms. Collectors like this cactus because it is special and hard to find. It makes any collection look cool and interesting. The plant looks strange and has almost no spines, so people like to talk about it.
Key Takeaways
- Trichocereus bridgesii forma monstrose inermis is a rare cactus. It has smooth tops with no spines. Its stems twist and show many colors. Each plant looks different from the others.
- Collectors like this cactus because it looks strange. It is hard to find and has safe stems you can touch. It makes any collection more interesting.
- This cactus grows best in bright light. It needs soil that drains water well. Only water it when the soil is dry. This helps stop root problems.
- You can grow new plants from stem cuttings. Let the cuttings dry first. Then plant them in good soil. They will grow roots fast.
- This cactus comes from South America. It is part of the trichocereus and echinopsis groups. It has an interesting cactus history.
Definition
Trichocereus bridgesii forma monstrose inermis
You might see trichocereus bridgesii forma monstrose inermis called by other names. Scientists sometimes use echinopsis bridgesii f. monstruosa inermis or echinopsis bridgesii forma monstrose. It can also be called echinopsis lageniformis f. monstruosa or echinopsis lageniformis f. monstruosa (short joined type). All these names mean the same rare cactus. This plant is part of the trichocereus group, which is now in the bigger echinopsis genus.
This cactus is easy to spot because it looks different. It grows short stems that stand up and branch from the bottom. The stems can get as tall as 40 cm. The top part of the stem is smooth and shaped like a cylinder. The bottom part has ribs and sometimes spines. The stem is a light blue-green color, and you might see creamy-yellow patches. If there are spines, they are mostly at the bottom. The spines are honey or brown and grow in small groups. They can be as long as 7 cm.
Plant experts say trichocereus bridgesii forma monstrose inermis is a stable, monstrous form. The plant often grows in crested or variegated ways. Some types have creamy-yellow colors. The smooth top and spiny bottom help you tell this cactus apart from others. These things make it a special kind in trichocereus bridgesii and echinopsis lageniformis f. monstruosa.
Note: There are some mutant types, like cristate, variegated, and monstrose forms. Each one grows in its own way, but they all have the same main features.
Common Names and Origins
You may know this plant by its funny names. People call it the “Penis Plant,” “Penis Cactus,” or “PeePee Cactus.” These names come from the smooth, round top of the stem. It looks like a penis. Sellers and collectors use these names a lot. You will see them in stores and online. Plant websites like llifle.net also use these names. The plant’s rare and strange shape makes these names easy to remember.
Trichocereus bridgesii forma monstrose inermis comes from South America. You can find it in the wild in Bolivia, Chile, and Peru. The cactus grows in dry, rocky places with lots of sun. The trichocereus and echinopsis groups have many cacti from this area. Over time, scientists put trichocereus bridgesii into the echinopsis genus. Now, you might see both names in books and plant guides.
The plant’s rare look and odd shape make it loved by collectors everywhere. You might want to get one if you like cool and strange cacti.
Physical Features
Monstrose Growth
When you see echinopsis lageniformis f. monstruosa, you notice its odd shape. This cactus does not grow straight or even. It grows in groups of short stems that stand up from the bottom. Each stem grows in a strange way. The stems twist, bend, and sometimes curve in weird ways. Some stems look like they are stuck together. This makes every plant look different.
The strange growth makes the plant look like a sculpture. No two plants are the same, so each one is like art for your collection.
Botanists say these cacti usually grow 25 to 40 cm tall. Each stem part is about 10 to 20 cm high and 5 cm wide. The stems are gray-green or light green. Sometimes, you see creamy-yellow spots. Some plants have even more colors if they are variegated.
Here is a table that lists the main features of echinopsis lageniformis f. monstruosa:
| Feature | Description / Measurement |
|---|---|
| Growth habit | Grows in groups, branches at the base, spreads |
| Height | 25–40 cm |
| Stem segments | Short, upright, vertical |
| Stem height | 10–20 cm |
| Stem diameter | 5 cm |
| Stem color | Gray-green or light green, sometimes variegated |
Spineless Form
Most echinopsis lageniformis f. monstruosa do not have spines on top. The word “inermis” means it has no spines. This makes the cactus safer and easier to touch than others. The top stems feel smooth and look shiny. Only the bottom part might have a few small spines. These spines grow in groups of up to four and are about 4 to 7 cm long. They are honey-yellow or brown.
The spineless top makes this cactus different from others. You can touch the top without getting poked. Many people like this cactus because it is special and not sharp.
Comparison to Trichocereus bridgesii
If you look at echinopsis lageniformis f. monstruosa next to a normal trichocereus bridgesii, you see big differences. Regular bridgesii cacti grow tall, straight stems with many ribs and spines all over. The monstrous form grows in groups with short, odd stems. The top stems are smooth and have no spines. The bottom parts might have a few spines.
You also see more colors in echinopsis lageniformis f. monstruosa. Some plants have creamy-yellow spots or other colors, which are rare in regular bridgesii. The whole plant looks softer and more pretty.
If you want a cactus that is really different, echinopsis lageniformis f. monstruosa gives you a rare mix of shape, color, and feel. It looks very different from the usual trichocereus bridgesii.
Collector Appeal
Rarity and Value
You will notice that echinopsis bridgesii forma monstrose inermis stands out in any cactus collection. Many collectors search for this plant because it is hard to find. Growers do not see it often in stores or nurseries. The plant’s rare form and spineless stems make it valuable. When you own one, you join a small group of people who have this special cactus.
Tip: If you see echinopsis bridgesii forma monstrose inermis for sale, you should act fast. The price can be high because collectors want it so much.
Some sellers offer cuttings or small plants. These can cost more than regular echinopsis cacti. The value comes from the plant’s slow growth and the time it takes to develop its strange shape.
Unique Ornamental Qualities
You will find that echinopsis bridgesii forma monstrose inermis brings a unique look to your home or garden. The plant’s twisted, smooth stems catch your eye. No two plants look the same. You can use it as a centerpiece or mix it with other cacti for a fun display.
- The smooth, spineless stems feel safe to touch.
- The odd shapes make people ask questions.
- The colors can change with light and age.
Many people enjoy showing their echinopsis to friends. The plant’s form makes it a conversation starter. You can take photos and share them online with other cactus fans.
Echinopsis and Trichocereus Connection
You may wonder why the name echinopsis appears so often. Scientists moved many trichocereus species into the echinopsis group. This means you will see both names in books and plant shops. Echinopsis bridgesii forma monstrose inermis belongs to both groups. You can learn about cactus history by studying these names.
Collectors like you often look for echinopsis plants with rare forms. The bridgesii monstrose inermis is one of the most wanted. You can explore other echinopsis types and see how they compare. This helps you build a collection that shows the wide range of echinopsis cacti.
Care and Propagation
Light and Soil Needs
You will help your echinopsis thrive when you give it the right light and soil. This cactus loves bright sunlight. Place it where it gets plenty of sun, but give it some shade during the hottest part of summer. Too much direct sun can cause sunburn on the smooth stems. In winter, keep your echinopsis in a cool, bright spot. This helps the plant rest and stay healthy.
For soil, choose a mix that drains well. Use a cactus potting mix or make your own by mixing regular soil with sand or perlite. Fertile, loose soil lets roots breathe and keeps water from pooling. Good drainage protects your echinopsis from root rot and fungal diseases.
Tip: Always check that the pot has holes at the bottom. This helps extra water escape and keeps your cactus safe.
Watering and Hardiness
You should water your echinopsis only after the soil dries out. This cactus can handle more water than some other types, but too much moisture can cause problems. Overwatering or high humidity may lead to fungal infections. During the growing season, water deeply but let the soil dry before watering again. In winter, reduce watering and do not fertilize. This rest period helps your echinopsis stay strong.
Studies on spineless cacti from dry regions show that these plants use water very efficiently. They can survive in salty or dry soils and still grow well. Your echinopsis will do best if you avoid soggy soil and keep it in a spot with good air flow.
Propagation Tips
You can easily grow new echinopsis plants from cuttings. Take a healthy stem segment and let it dry for a few days. This helps the cut end heal and prevents rot. After it dries, plant the segment in well-drained soil. Keep the soil slightly moist until you see new roots.
- Cuttings root quickly and grow into stable, monstrous forms.
- You do not need special tools or skills.
- Each new plant will look a little different, making your collection unique.
Root growth in rare cacti often starts with shallow, spreading roots. These roots help the plant take up water and nutrients, even in tough conditions. When you use cuttings, you give your echinopsis the best chance to grow strong and healthy.
You can see why echinopsis bridgesii forma monstrose inermis is special. This cactus grows in groups with short, upright stems. The top part is smooth and does not have spines. It has creamy-yellow colors and a strange shape. This makes it rare and wanted by collectors.
- Here are some things you will notice:
- It grows in odd, twisted, and colorful ways.
- The top stems are smooth and have no spines, but the bottom may have honey-colored spines.
- It is easy to care for and looks great in any collection.
The table below shows why collectors like echinopsis so much:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Rarity | Very rare, has a special look |
| Growth | Grows in groups, branches, 10–40 cm tall |
| Care | Simple to grow, can handle cold, needs sun |
You can enjoy echinopsis for its looks and learn about its place with other trichocereus and echinopsis cacti.
FAQ
What makes Trichocereus bridgesii forma monstrose inermis so rare?
You will find this cactus rare because it grows in a unique, monstrous form. Growers do not see it often in nature or stores. Collectors value its odd shape and spineless stems.
Is the “Penis Plant” safe to touch?
You can safely touch the smooth, spineless stems. The top part does not have sharp spines. Only the lower part may have a few small spines, so handle the base with care.
How do you propagate this cactus?
You can propagate it by taking a healthy stem cutting. Let the cut end dry for a few days. Plant it in well-draining soil. New roots will grow soon.
Tip: Always use clean tools when taking cuttings to prevent disease.
What is the best way to water this cactus?
You should water only when the soil feels dry. Too much water can cause root rot. In winter, water less often. Always check the soil before adding water.
- Use pots with drainage holes.
- Avoid letting water sit at the bottom.