From the Greek word "Coryne" meaning "club", the genus Stetsonia contains only two discovered species (to our knowledge), one being the Stetsonia Coryne - making this cactus a highly demanded collector's specimen.
These faster growing cacti can be found as branching tree-like structures, growing 5-15cm per year, and up to 7 meters tall in a lifetime. Better known as the Teddy Bear Cactus or the Toothpick Cactus, this powdery blue, thick plant can drastically branch out, making it popular among those who favour the typical cactus shape found in illustrations (road runner).
Cactus Vision recommends this species for tall pots (away from ankles and pets); balcony displays, and rocky garden beds - where this not-so-cuddly teddy bear can grow into a towering statement piece over the years. If you've purchased this plant potted, you can repot this cactus every 3-5 years or whenever it outgrows its pot.
Like many blue frosted cacti, we suggest half-day sun to help this cactus retain its rich colours, however with sufficient watering, this plant can easily handle full-day sun in NSW. With white large flowers, this evergreen succulent can take many years before blooming from Spring through to Summer.
The Stetsonia Coryne can become a victim to mealybug or scale insects. Cactus Vision suggests seasonal treatment to minimize the risk of attacks. Due to its large toothpick-like spines, this genus is deer, possum, and kangaroo resistant. Younger plants require protection from prolonged frost, we suggest covering smaller cacti with hessian bags for protection from frost burn when necessary. Older plants are frost tolerant.
Although these plants are relatively easy to care for, they have long extravagant spines, that make them difficult to handle. Don't be deterred, this species is a MUST-HAVE, contact our team for advice on how to handle this prickly specimen safely.
