Botanical Name: Stenocereus pruinosus
Common Names: Gray Ghost Organ Pipe, Gray Ghost Cactus
Stenocereus pruinosus, commonly known as the Gray Ghost Organ Pipe, is a striking columnar cactus prized for its powdery, glaucous-gray stems, edible fruit, and bold architectural presence. Endemic to south-central Mexico, it is a moderate to fast grower under warm, sunny conditions and naturally develops a tree-like form with a sturdy trunk and distinctive V-shaped branching arms. In the wild, it can reach 16–23 feet tall, while in cultivation, it typically remains under 6 feet tall when grown in containers, making it an exceptional statement plant for cactus collectors.
Care and Cultivation:
Full sun to bright light for best color and growth
Well-draining cactus or succulent soil
Water sparingly during the growing season
Low maintenance once established
Frost Tolerance and Cold Hardiness:
Best suited for USDA zones 9b–11
Can tolerate brief cold snaps to 25°F (-4°C) if kept completely dry
Not frost-hardy; cold, wet conditions may cause damage
Recommended to keep above 41–50°F (5–10°C) for optimal health
Winter Dormancy and Health:
Naturally enters dormancy during cooler months
Reduce or stop watering entirely in winter
Resume watering in spring once temperatures remain above 60°F
Keep in a bright, frost-free location to prevent stretching
Botanical Name: Stenocereus pruinosus
Common Names: Gray Ghost Organ Pipe, Gray Ghost Cactus
Stenocereus pruinosus, commonly known as the Gray Ghost Organ Pipe, is a striking columnar cactus prized for its powdery, glaucous-gray stems, edible fruit, and bold architectural presence. Endemic to south-central Mexico, it is a moderate to fast grower under warm, sunny conditions and naturally develops a tree-like form with a sturdy trunk and distinctive V-shaped branching arms. In the wild, it can reach 16–23 feet tall, while in cultivation, it typically remains under 6 feet tall when grown in containers, making it an exceptional statement plant for cactus collectors.
Care and Cultivation:
Full sun to bright light for best color and growth
Well-draining cactus or succulent soil
Water sparingly during the growing season
Low maintenance once established
Frost Tolerance and Cold Hardiness:
Best suited for USDA zones 9b–11
Can tolerate brief cold snaps to 25°F (-4°C) if kept completely dry
Not frost-hardy; cold, wet conditions may cause damage
Recommended to keep above 41–50°F (5–10°C) for optimal health
Winter Dormancy and Health:
Naturally enters dormancy during cooler months
Reduce or stop watering entirely in winter
Resume watering in spring once temperatures remain above 60°F
Keep in a bright, frost-free location to prevent stretching
