Monster Cactus

Cereus Monstrose cactus are fascinating freaks of nature. Normal plants usually grow from a single point at the tip of the stem, or an areole in the case of cacti that branch or offset. These cacti grow from random points and usually produce plants that are asymmetrical and covered in knobby bumps. Many of these plants can be strangely beautiful.

They are night bloomers. Mine is about 13 inches tall. The best estimate I can find is that it will grow to about 18 inches.

    The mechanism behind Monstrosity is not entirely understood. It can be a natural mutation. It is also thought that damage to the growth point by insects or disease can produce it. But no one has successfully produced the effect artificially. Some plants actually can seem to exhibit characteristics of both phenomena.

EDIT:   I swapped out  the picture to show it from a different perspective.  This view better demonstrates how it grows from random points and not from one single point like most cactus.  There are many "clumps" hidden behind what is visible.

Oktoberfest today.  Won't be able to eat the brats, but hopeful there will be other things I can ingest other than water.  Should be a fun time.