Eve's Needle Cactus (Austrocylindropuntia subulata)

The Eve’s Needle (Austrocylindropuntia subulata) is a branching, tree-like specimen that grows to four meters tall with cylindrical deep green leaves. New growth does not have many spines, but as the plant matures yellowish-red spines develop on its tip. The Eve’s needle will rarely bloom in cultivation, but when it does, it produces long, coppery red showy blooms. Its fruit is oblong with small spines. This exquisite cactus is native to the higher elevations of Peru, Ecuador, Argentina, and Bolivia, where it is used and cultivated as a living fence.

This plant is fast-growing once established and requires minimal care. The Eve’s Needle needs full sun to light shade and well-draining soil. The plant prefers more water than most cacti, but does not water it as much during the winter months. It can be easily propagated from seeds and cuttings.