Eve’s Needle Cactus (Austrocylindropuntia subulata): Complete Care & Growing Guide

Eve’s needle cactus (Austrocylindropuntia subulata) is a striking, fast-growing columnar cactus with long, cylindrical stems and distinctive, elongated leaf-like “needles.” Native to the high Andes of Peru and Ecuador, it thrives in hot, dry conditions and is suitable for outdoor xeriscapes or large indoor containers. Outdoors, it can grow over 3 metres tall, while potted plants typically reach 1–2 metres. Mature plants may produce vivid red-orange flowers in spring or summer, sometimes followed by small, edible fruits. With proper care, Eve’s needle cactus provides dramatic vertical interest in warm, arid climates.

Growing Conditions & Best Practices

• Light: Full sun is best for upright growth. Indoors, place near a bright, sunny window or under a high-output grow light.
• Soil: Use a gritty cactus/succulent mix with added pumice, scoria, or coarse sand for maximum drainage.
• Watering: Deeply water only when soil is completely dry. In spring and summer, this is usually every 10–14 days; in winter, reduce to every 4–6 weeks.
• Temperature: Prefers 18–32 °C. Tolerates brief dips to -6 °C if dry, but protect from prolonged frost.
• Fertilising: Apply a diluted low-nitrogen cactus fertiliser every 4–6 weeks during active growth to support strong stems and flowering.
• Support: Tall plants may need staking in windy locations until roots are well-established.

Drooping stems can indicate insufficient light, nutrient imbalance, or rapid, weak growth from overly rich soil. Adjusting conditions quickly will restore the plant’s upright form.