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Don’t let the name fool you—Cuddly Cactus (Cereus jamacaru) may sound huggable, but this striking cactus is covered in sharp spines and best admired from a safe distance! Native to South America, particularly Brazil, this fast-growing columnar cactus is popular for its bold form, bluish-green ribbed stems, and nighttime-blooming white flowers.
If you're looking to add a dramatic desert vibe to your home or garden, Cereus jamacaru is a standout choice. Here's how to care for this not-so-cuddly beauty.
The Cuddly Cactus thrives in full sun and does best when it receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Indoors, it should be placed near a bright, south- or west-facing window. Without sufficient light, the cactus may become leggy and lose its strong, symmetrical shape. If grown outdoors, be sure to position it in a sunny, warm location.
Cereus jamacaru prefers a “soak and dry” watering method, meaning it should be watered thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry. During the warmer months of spring and summer, this might mean watering every two to three weeks. In cooler months, watering frequency should be reduced significantly. Always ensure the pot has proper drainage, and never allow the roots to sit in soggy soil, which can cause root rot.
This cactus thrives in dry environments and prefers warm temperatures ranging from 70 to 90°F (21 to 32°C). While it can tolerate occasional cooler spells, it should be protected from frost, as it is not cold-hardy. If outdoor temperatures fall below 50°F (10°C), it’s best to bring the plant indoors or provide shelter.
Cuddly Cactus needs a well-draining soil mix, such as a commercial cactus or succulent blend. You can also create your own by combining two parts potting soil with one part coarse sand or pumice and one part perlite or cactus grit. Repotting should be done every two to three years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Due to its spines, always handle this cactus with care—using gloves or tongs is highly recommended.
During its active growing season in spring and summer, feed the cactus every four to six weeks with a balanced cactus fertilizer or a low-nitrogen blend diluted to half strength. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months, when the plant enters a dormant phase.
In ideal outdoor conditions, Cereus jamacaru can grow impressively tall—reaching up to 30 feet (9 meters). When grown in containers indoors, its size will be more moderate but still striking. Over time, it may develop branches and take on a tree-like appearance, making it a bold focal point in any cactus collection.
With maturity and the right care, this cactus produces large, fragrant white flowers that bloom at night and typically fade by morning. These blooms are usually pollinated by nocturnal creatures such as moths and bats in their native habitat. While flowering indoors is less common, it’s certainly possible and always a treat when it happens.
While Cereus jamacaru is not considered toxic to pets, its sharp spines can cause injury. For this reason, it's best to keep the cactus in a spot where curious pets and children can’t accidentally come into contact with it.