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Pitaya, Xoconochtli, Jonocostle
Scientific Name: Stenocereus stellatus (Pfeiff.) Riccob.
Synonym: Cereus stellatus, Lemaireocereus stellatus, Rathbunia stellata, Cereus dyckii
Family: Cactaceae

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Recommended Temperature Zone:
USDA: 10
Frost Tolerance: takes little frost
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Origin: Mexico (Oaxaca, Puebla)
Growth Habits: Shrubby, up to 10 feet tall (3 m), often basally branching, bluish green stems 2.8 to 4 in. wide (7-10 cm); 8-12 obtuse ribs; areoles 0.4 to 0.8 in. apart (1-2 cm); 3 central spines; 10-12 gray radials with darker tips.
Watering Needs: Little to moderate water
Propagation: Stem cuttings
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The fruit is edible, slightly acid can be found in the markets as 'Jonocostle' or 'Tuna'.
Blooming Habits: The nocturnal pink, bell-shaped 1.6 to 2.4 inch long flowers (4-6 cm), appear at the top of the stems in June to August. The red globose fruit are up to 1.2 inches in diameter (3 cm) with spines falling at maturity.
References: Las Cactaceas de Mexico
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