How to Grow and Care for Middle Finger Cactus

The common name “middle finger cactus” belongs to Austrocylindropuntia subulata, also known as Eve’s Needle Cactus. The name stems from its appearance as a tall, branching cactus that develops cylindrical segments resembling fingers. Its distinctive form and simple care requirements make it an interesting addition for anyone looking to expand their succulent collection.

Identification and Characteristics

Austrocylindropuntia subulata is a tree-like cactus native to the high elevations of the Andes Mountains in Peru and Bolivia. Its main stem is composed of glossy green, cylindrical sections covered in prominent, ovate bumps called tubercles. From these tubercles, new segments branch out, creating the multi-limbed structure that gives the plant its memorable nickname.

A key identifying feature of this cactus is the presence of small, awl-shaped leaves on new growth. These fleshy, greenish-yellow leaves are a distinguishing characteristic, as most cacti do not have prominent leaves. As the plant matures, it develops grayish-white spines that emerge from areoles at the tips of the tubercles. While it can produce reddish, tubular flowers in its natural environment, it rarely blooms when cultivated indoors.

General Care Guide

This cactus needs conditions that mimic its native arid environment. Ample sunlight is a primary requirement; providing at least six hours of direct sun each day will encourage compact, healthy growth. Placing it in a south-facing window is ideal for indoor cultivation, as not enough light will cause the plant to stretch and become weak.

The soil composition is just as important as light exposure. This cactus demands a potting medium with excellent drainage to prevent moisture from accumulating around its roots. A commercial cactus and succulent mix is a reliable choice, or you can create your own by blending potting soil with inorganic materials like perlite and coarse sand. This ensures water flows through the pot quickly.

The “soak and dry” method is highly effective for watering. This involves watering the plant thoroughly until water runs from the container’s drainage holes, and then allowing the soil to dry out completely before the next watering. During the spring and summer growing season, this might mean watering every couple of weeks. In the dormant winter months, watering frequency should be drastically reduced.

This plant prefers warm and dry conditions and is not frost-tolerant, so it must be brought indoors before the first frost in colder regions. During the active growing seasons of spring and summer, you can apply a balanced cactus fertilizer diluted to half-strength. This should only be done once or twice a year to provide supplemental nutrients.

Propagation Methods

Creating new plants from an Eve’s Needle Cactus is achieved through stem cuttings. This method is straightforward and has a high success rate. Select a healthy, firm segment and use a clean, sharp knife to cut it from the main plant. It is advisable to wear protective gloves to avoid injury from the plant’s spines.

After taking the cutting, allow the cut end to dry and form a callus. Place the cutting in a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight for several days to a week. This callusing process seals the wound and is a defense against rot when the cutting is planted. Once a firm, dry callus has formed, the cutting is ready.

Insert the callused end about an inch or two deep into a pot filled with a dry, well-draining cactus mix. Do not water the cutting immediately. Wait for a few weeks to give it time to develop roots. Once roots have formed, you can begin watering sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.

Common Issues and Solutions

One of the most frequent problems is etiolation, or “leggy” growth. This condition is characterized by stretched, pale, and weak stems, and is a direct result of insufficient light. To fix this, move the plant to a location where it can receive several more hours of direct sunlight each day.

Overwatering is another common issue that leads to root rot. Signs include drooping stems that feel soft or mushy and may appear discolored. If you suspect root rot, remove the plant from its pot, inspect the roots, trim away any black or mushy sections, and repot it in fresh, dry soil. Drooping can also be a sign of underwatering, but the stems will appear shriveled and dry rather than soft.

Pests are not a major concern, but mealybugs and scale insects can sometimes appear. These pests often hide on the stems and near the tubercles. To remove them, dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and apply it directly to the insects to dislodge and kill them.