Totem Pole Cactus

The Totem Pole Cactus (Lophocereus schottii var. monstrosus) is a fascinating, sculptural cactus known for its tall, columnar growth and unusual, knobby surface.

Appearance

Unlike most cacti, the totem pole cactus lacks spines on most of its surface, making its bumpy, irregular skin very visible. The “monstrose” form causes unpredictable, lumpy growth patterns, giving it a totem-pole-like appearance. Its stems are usually light green to blue-green, and can grow upright for many feet, branching occasionally.

Size and Growth

In ideal outdoor conditions—such as its native habitat in the Sonoran Desert of Baja California—it can grow 10 to 12 feet tall or more. In containers or indoor settings, it typically stays smaller but remains slow-growing.

Flowers and Fruit

It rarely flowers, especially in cultivation, but when it does, it produces large white, nocturnal blooms followed by red fruit.

Care Needs

• Light: Full sun is best, though it can adapt to bright indirect light indoors.

• Water: Very drought-tolerant; prefers infrequent deep watering, allowing soil to dry completely.

• Soil: Well-draining cactus/succulent mix is essential.

• Temperature: Not frost-hardy—keep above 50°F.

Fun Fact

Its mutation that causes the knobby “totem pole” look is natural but rare. In the wild, it sometimes grows alongside its “normal” cousin, the straight-spined Lophocereus schottii.