Habitat: Central and South America, particularly Brazil.
Description: a columnar ribbed cactus with spiny areoles bearing flowers near the top when the plant is mature, usually after several years. It thrives in a wide range of conditions. Some are synonymous with plants included in the genus Pilosocereus.
Soil: basic mix.
Location: grow adult plants in full sun, young ones in bright indirect light.
Temperature: minimum temperature of 6°C (43°F).
Water: average. Avoid excessive water and bad drainage.
Cultivation tips: they’re slow-growing. Provide high air humidity during the warmer months but little in the winter. Repot each spring.
Main species of Cephalocereus: Cephalocereus palmeri, branched cactus that flowers reliably in cultivation.
Cephalocereus polylophus; Cephalocereus senilis; Cephalocereus chrysacanthus.