Scientific name: Myrtillocactus geometrizans forma cristata
Common name: Dinosaur Back Plant, Crested Blue Candle
The candelabra Succulent has thick, waxy branches. It can grow quite large, spreading out over a thick columnar trunk and creating waves as it grows.
Quick Look at Myrtillocactus geometrizans forma cristata
- Full sun
- Typical water needs for a succulent. Do not water in the winter
- Plant grows up to 6′ (1.8 m) tall
Plant grows up to 24″ (61 cm) wide - Zone 10a (Minimum 30° F | -1.1° C)
- Not cold hardy
- Propagation by stem cuttings and leaves
- Generally non-toxic
- Winter dormant
General Care for Myrtillocactus geometrizans forma cristata “Dinosaur Back Plant”
In an outdoor garden, myrtillocactus geometrizans forma cristata “Dinosaur Back Plant” grows well. In a tall planter be sure to plant in well-draining soil. In the summer, dinosaur back loves being in the sun. It’s best to move your plant in the winter.
Watering
The dinosaur back plant has typical watering needs. The “soak and dry” method will allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Where to Plant
If you live in a zone that gets colder than 30 F, it’s best to plant the dinosaur back plant in a container that can be brought indoors. It does well in both full and partial sun.
You can plant in an area of your garden that gets 6 hours of sunlight a day. If you’re in the Northern Hemisphere, place a room that gets a lot of sunlight near a southern-facing window.
How to Propagate Myrtillocactus geometrizans forma cristata “Dinosaur Back Plant”
In the summer, myrtillocactus geometrizans forma cristata “Dinosaur Back Plant” can be grown. Use a sterile knife or scissors. Allow the main plant’s stem to callous for several days before placing it on well-draining soil. Water whenever the soil has dried out.
Additional information
The term cristata means “crested.”.
