Cereus forbesii monstrose 'Ming Thing'

Cereus forbesii monstrose 'Ming Thing' (also known as C. validus): The monstrose form of a blue-green columnar cactus from Bolivia and Argentina. It has a wonderfully twisted form and sports a few short spines. C. validus can tolerate slightly lower light conditions than your average cactus. It's not a dependable bloomer but it can produce a white to reddish flower.

This cactus variety will not survive a hard frost, but if there is a risk of freezing temperatures it can be brought indoors to grow on a sunny window sill or under a grow light. Cactus need ample sunlight, great drainage, and infrequent water to prevent rot. Pick containers with drainage holes and use with 70% to 80% mineral grit such as coarse sand, pumice, or perlite. Water deeply and wait for the soil to completely dry out before watering again.