Creeping Devil
stenocereus eruca
Also known as: ["Creeping Devil Cactus","Devil's Cactus"]
Overview
A unique, ground-hugging cactus species native to Mexico, characterized by its long, segmented stems that root at the nodes as they spread.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Stenocereus |
| Botanical Name: | Stenocereus eruca |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: outdoor ground in arid or semi-arid regions, or indoor pot in very bright, sunny location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogged roots.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 1–2 years or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary, but avoid heavy pruning unless correcting s
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, indirect sunlight for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate direct morning sun but requires protection from intense afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching. Indoors, place near a south or west-facing window with filtered light. Outdoors, provide partial shade during peak sun hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries fully between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy cactus mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; use a mix with inorganic components for aeration.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C). Tolerates mild frost but thrives in moderate to warm conditions year-round.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced cactus fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute fertilizer to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (offsets or sections of the main stem).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem section.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in propagation medium.
- Keep moist but not waterlogged.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), humid (50–60%), and bright but indirect light. Protect from direct sun until roots develop.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil, perlite, and coarse sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots may form in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or shears, rooting hormone, propagation medium, small pot, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use a humidifier or plastic cover to maintain humidity; ensure the medium is well-draining.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems cleanly just above a node or joint. Remove dead or weak stems entirely.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, remove dead or damaged stems, and encourage bushier growth. Focus on maintaining shape and health.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or a sharp knife.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/damaged stems; shape as desired; clean up debris afterward.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh cactus soil; ensure good drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh cactus mix; trim roots if needed; water sparingly after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at base; ensure drainage; reduce winter watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base, soaking the root zone until water drains from the bottom. Ensure excess water drains away completely to prevent root rot. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply during active growth (spring/summer) every 7–14 days, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency to monthly or less in winter.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to commercial cactus mix to enhance drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing) or necrosis (browning) of lower leaves; stunted growth; bud drop; mushy stems (cold stress); wilting or scorching (heat stress).
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or rot, especially if soil remains moist. Prolonged cold may lead to tissue damage.
Solution: Move plant to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; use a space heater or insulate pots during cold snaps; avoid watering until temperatures rise.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, sunburn, or scorching of stems, especially if combined with inadequate water or intense sunlight.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; water more frequently but ensure drainage; move to a cooler spot if possible.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use cactus-specific fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize in spring/summer only; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicThe spines of Stenocereus eruca can cause mechanical injury to cats if they come into contact with them, but the plant does not contain known toxic compounds that are harmful to felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched
Dogs
Non-toxicThe spines of Stenocereus eruca may cause mechanical injury to dogs if they come into contact with them, but the plant is not known to contain toxic substances harmful to canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched
Humans
Non-toxicThe spines of Stenocereus eruca can cause mechanical injury upon contact, but there are no known toxic compounds that pose a significant health risk to humans.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does Stenocereus eruca propagate?
A: It propagates by rooting at the nodes of its segmented stems as they spread along the ground.
Q: Is Stenocereus eruca suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: It is primarily an outdoor plant, thriving in arid, sunny conditions.
Q: What are the typical growing conditions for Stenocereus eruca?
A: It requires full sun, well-draining soil, and minimal water, making it ideal for xeriscaping.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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