Stenocereus pruinosus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Stenocereus pruinosus |
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Stenocereus
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pruinosus
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Stenocereus pruinosus is a type of cactus that grows like a tree. It is found only in Mexico, in states such as Veracruz, Puebla, and Oaxaca. This unique plant is sometimes called the "Gray Organ Pipe Cactus" because of its tall, upright stems.
What it Looks Like
The Stenocereus pruinosus cactus often grows like a small tree, reaching about 4 to 5 meters (13 to 16 feet) tall. It usually has a clear main trunk before its branches spread out.
Stems and Spines
Its stems are a light, grayish-blue color, which is called "glaucous." New shoots are a darker green. These stems are usually 8 to 12 centimeters (about 3 to 5 inches) wide. Each stem has six (sometimes five to eight) wavy ridges, like the folds of an accordion.
Along these ridges are small, fuzzy spots called areoles. From these areoles grow the cactus's spines. There are usually three to nine central spines, which are gray and can be 2 to 3 centimeters (about 1 to 2 inches) long. Around these, you'll find five to nine (sometimes up to twelve) shorter, gray radial spines, which are usually less than 15 millimeters (about half an inch) long.
Flowers and Fruit
This cactus produces beautiful, funnel-shaped white flowers. They can be up to 9 centimeters (about 3.5 inches) long and appear near the tips of the stems. These flowers are special because they open at night and stay open until the next day.
After the flowers, the cactus grows an interesting fruit. It's green with a reddish tint, shaped long, and can be 5 to 8 centimeters (about 2 to 3 inches) long and up to 5 centimeters (2 inches) wide. Inside, the fruit has bright red flesh.
Uses
The fruit of the Stenocereus pruinosus cactus is edible and very important to the people in Mexico where it grows. It's a valuable food source and is often picked and sold in local markets in the countryside.
See also
In Spanish: Stenocereus pruinosus para niños
