Stenocereus gummosus, also referred to as Cerus gummosus, is a perennial evergreen columnar cactus plant in the family Cactaceae. S. gummosus is native to Baja California and Mexico. The main stem reaches 3 to 9 feet in height and is capable of becoming a ground cover. Stenocereus gummosus branches profusely at the base and creates large thickets of growth over time. The thick ribs of this plant house many sharp gray spines. Flowers bloom late spring to mid summer and produce white blossoms. Fruits are red to green and are covered in gray spines similar to the stems of the plant. S. gummosus is usually grown as an ornamental plant, but its fruit are edible. There are some historical accounts of indiginous people using crushed Stenocereus gummosus stems for toxins to stun fish. Full sun to partial shade in a well draining soil mix is ideal for this species. Water adequately during summer and keep dry during winter as the species is prone to rot. USDA plant hardiness zones 9a to 11b.
Stenocereus gummosus seeds require consistent moisture and humidity to germinate, but soil should not be soaking wet. Cloning boxes, ziplock bags, and other containers that retain moisture are ideal to store sown pots. Use a well draining sterilized soil mix. Seeds should be sown on top of potting mixture and lightly covered with a thin layer of sand or potting mix, just enough to cover the seeds. Germinating pots should be kept indoors out of extreme light and heat. Ideal germination temperatures range from 75°F to 85°F. Germination typically takes 1 to 3 weeks to occur. Even with optimal conditions, germination may be slow and sporadic.
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All packages will be shipped with basic customs information such as; HS codes, VAT numbers, and properly labeled contents. Unfortunately, The Garden of Set is unable to provide phytosanitary certificates for orders at this time. It is the buyer’s responsibility to know local laws regarding the import of plants, seeds, and plant products into their country. It is also up to the buyer to provide any other customs forms or information required to import plants into their country. If packages get stopped by customs, The Garden of Set will not be able to provide a refund for the purchase. Most of the time packages make it to their destinations just fine, this is for the small minority of packages that get stopped without having all the proper customs information required by the country of import. Purchase at your own discretion.