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blue pencil cactus

blue pencil cactus Buy Fat Blue Myrtle Cactus Phoenix, AZ | M. geometrizans

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blue pencil cactus Buy Fat Blue Myrtle Cactus Phoenix, AZ | M. geometrizansThe Thickest Blue Columnar Cactus for Phoenix Desert Landscapes Fat Blue Myrtle Cactus (Myrtillocactus geometrizans fat form) is a bold, sculptural columnar cactus prized for its unusually thick blue green stems and striking vertical growth. Unlike the standard Blue Myrtle, this fat form develops wider, more robust columns that create a powerful architectural presence in any landscape. The powdery blue skin gives it an almost metallic shimmer in the

The Thickest Blue Columnar Cactus for Phoenix Desert Landscapes

Fat Blue Myrtle Cactus (Myrtillocactus geometrizans fat form) is a bold, sculptural columnar cactus prized for its unusually thick blue-green stems and striking vertical growth. Unlike the standard Blue Myrtle, this fat form develops wider, more robust columns that create a powerful architectural presence in any landscape. The powdery blue skin gives it an almost metallic shimmer in the Phoenix sun, and its slow-growing, low-maintenance nature makes it ideal for modern desert designs. Whether you're creating a dramatic focal point in a Scottsdale courtyard, flanking a Chandler entryway with living columns, or building a collector's cactus garden in Mesa — Fat Blue Myrtle Cactus delivers serious visual impact with zero fuss.

Fat Blue Myrtle Cactus Plant Details

Attribute Detail
Scientific Name Myrtillocactus geometrizans (fat form)
Common Names Fat Blue Myrtle Cactus, Fat Blue Candle, Garambullo
Mature Height 6–12 feet
Mature Width 4–8 feet (multi-branching candelabra form)
Growth Rate Moderate — 6–12 inches per year in Phoenix once established
Sun Full sun (6+ hrs). Handles reflected heat from walls.
Water Low once established. Highly drought-tolerant.
USDA Zones 9–11 (Phoenix is Zone 9b–10a)
Soil Well-draining. Adapts to Arizona caliche soils with amendment.
Foliage Evergreen — powdery blue-green columns year-round
Special Feature Extra-thick stems with blue powdery coating — the fattest form available

Fat Blue Myrtle Cactus Uses in Phoenix Landscapes

Architectural Focal Point

Fat Blue Myrtle's thick blue columns make it a natural sculptural centerpiece for modern desert courtyards, entry gardens, and xeriscape beds. A single specimen surrounded by decomposed granite and accent boulders commands attention without competing plants. The blue skin creates stunning contrast against warm-toned stucco walls, Cor-Ten steel, and terracotta. For maximum impact, uplight at night to cast dramatic column shadows.

Statement Entryway Planting

Plant a matching pair of Fat Blue Myrtles on either side of a front door, driveway, or gate for a bold, symmetrical welcome. Their vertical form draws the eye upward while the blue color reads as sophisticated and intentional. Choose 15–25 gallon specimens for instant height and presence.

Desert Garden Background Column

Use Fat Blue Myrtle as a tall backdrop behind lower agaves, barrel cacti, and desert shrubs. Its vertical growth adds height without significant spread, making it ideal for layered desert plantings. Pair with Golden Barrel Cactus, Desert Spoon, and Agave americana for a classic Arizona desert composition. Space 4–6 feet from neighboring plants.

Best Time to Plant Fat Blue Myrtle Cactus in Phoenix

Late spring through early fall (April–October) is ideal for columnar cacti. Warm soil and air temperatures promote root establishment and reduce the risk of rot from cold-wet conditions. Avoid planting in winter when cold temperatures and dormancy slow root growth. For container-to-ground transplants, May through September is the sweet spot.

How to Plant Fat Blue Myrtle Cactus

  1. Dig wide, not deep — Excavate a hole 2–3x the width of the root ball, same depth. Never plant deeper than the original soil line.
  2. Check for caliche — Break through any hardpan layer. Columnar cacti absolutely require excellent drainage.
  3. Backfill with native soil — Mix in 30% pumice or perlite for improved drainage. No compost needed.
  4. Spacing — 4–6 feet apart for grouped plantings; 6+ feet for standalone specimens.
  5. Do not water immediately — Let the roots callous for 3–5 days after transplanting before the first watering.
  6. Mulch with gravel — 2–3 inches of rock mulch around the base. Avoid bark mulch that retains moisture against the trunk.

Watering Fat Blue Myrtle Cactus in Phoenix

First Year Watering Schedule

After initial callous period (3–5 days): Water deeply every 10–14 days.
Months 1–3: Every 10–14 days during warm months; monthly in winter.
After Year 1: Every 2–3 weeks in summer; once monthly or less in winter.
Established plants (3+ years): Survive on rainfall alone in most years.

Drip Irrigation

Place 1–2 GPH emitters 18–24 inches from the trunk base. Columnar cacti are highly sensitive to overwatering — always err on the dry side. Root rot is the #1 killer. If unsure, wait another week before watering.

How big does Fat Blue Myrtle Cactus get?
In Phoenix, Fat Blue Myrtle typically reaches 6–12 feet tall with a multi-branching candelabra form 4–8 feet wide. Growth rate is moderate at 6–12 inches per year once established. Larger specimens with multiple branches can take 10–15 years to develop their full form.

What's the difference between Fat Blue Myrtle and regular Blue Myrtle?
Same species (Myrtillocactus geometrizans), but the fat form develops noticeably thicker, wider columns. Standard Blue Myrtle has thinner, more pencil-like branches. The fat form creates a bolder, more substantial presence in the landscape.

Is Fat Blue Myrtle Cactus cold hardy in Phoenix?
It handles typical Phoenix winters well but can suffer damage below 25°F. In unusually cold winters, protect young plants with frost cloth. Mature specimens are more cold-tolerant. Plant in a warm microclimate (south or west-facing wall) for extra protection.

Does Fat Blue Myrtle Cactus produce fruit?
Yes — Myrtillocactus produces small edible purple berries called garambullo, popular in Mexican cuisine. You may see small greenish-white flowers along the ribs in spring, followed by fruit clusters. The berries attract birds and add seasonal interest.

You May Also Like

Blue Myrtle Cactus — The standard form with thinner columns and a more open branching habit.
Crested Blue Myrtle — A rare crested mutation with dramatic fan-shaped growth, perfect for collectors.
Totem Pole Major — A smooth, spineless columnar cactus with a bold sculptural presence.
San Pedro Cactus — A fast-growing columnar cactus with ribbed green columns, great for quick height.

How Many Fat Blue Myrtle Cactus Do I Need?

This is a thick, multi-branching columnar cactus that matures 4 to 8 feet wide, so it is planted as a specimen or a spaced row of living pillars rather than a tight hedge. Use the grouping guide below, measuring center to center.

Planting use Spacing (on center) Layout
Single focal column n/a One specimen in granite with accent boulders
Entry pair 4 to 6 ft apart Two matched plants flanking a door or gate
Sculptural cluster 5 to 6 ft apart Odd-numbered group of 3 or 5 so each column stands clear
Spaced backdrop row 6 ft apart 5 plants span roughly 24 to 30 ft of bed

Fat Blue Myrtle Cactus Season-by-Season in Phoenix

  • Spring (Feb to Apr): Small greenish-white flowers open along the ribs as days warm, the start of the garambullo fruit cycle. A good second window to plant once nights stay above the mid 40s.
  • Summer (May to Sep): Peak growth season. The thick blue columns shrug off Phoenix heat and reflected warmth from south and west walls. Monsoon humidity and rain push a flush of new branching, but keep the root zone on the dry side since rot is the main risk in wet heat.
  • Fall (Oct to Nov): Prime planting season with warm soil and easing heat. Berries finish coloring and draw birds. Roots establish quickly before winter.
  • Winter (Dec to Jan): Holds its blue evergreen structure but is the tender season. Expect cosmetic damage below about 25°F. Cover young plants with frost cloth on hard-freeze nights and site them against a warm wall for protection.

At a Glance

✔ Heat-Loving (Reflected-Heat Tolerant)   ✔ Drought-Tolerant   ✔ Evergreen   ✔ Low-Maintenance   ✔ Pollinator-Friendly   ✔ Edible   ✔ Deer & Rabbit-Resistant   ✔ Cold-Hardy to 25°F

Plant It With

  • Blue Myrtle Cactus: the standard thinner-columned form, a natural companion for a graduated blue grouping.
  • Crested Blue Myrtle: the fan-shaped crested mutation of the same species, a collector's accent at the base.
  • Mexican Fence Post: a slim green columnar cactus that contrasts the fat blue columns for added vertical rhythm.
  • Golden Barrel: a low golden globe that grounds the tall blue columns at ground level.

Is Fat Blue Myrtle Cactus Right for Your Yard?

It thrives in full sun with sharp drainage, including hot reflected-heat spots against stucco or block walls, and asks for very little water once established. Give it room for the 4 to 8 foot branching spread and a warm microclimate so winter cold stays survivable. It is not a fit if your soil stays soggy or your planting spot drops well below 25°F without protection, since prolonged cold-wet conditions cause rot and frost scarring.

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Vikki Lynn
Cuba, US
★★★★★ 5
Unraveling Fate and Fae: A Captivating Journey in "Queen of Roses"
Format: Kindle
"Queen of Roses" by Briar Boleyn is a dark fantasy romance that masterfully combines elements of myth, magic, and romance with a captivating King Arthur retelling infused with a Fae twist. From its intricately woven plot to its compelling characters, this novel delivers an immersive reading experience that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment. At its core, "Queen of Roses" is an enchanting tale of forbidden love and destiny, featuring an exceptionally slow-burn romance that ignites with the intensity of an enemies-to-lovers trope. Against a backdrop of magic and mythical creatures, the story unfolds with tension, banter, and forced proximity, drawing readers into a world filled with love, friendships, self-discovery, and betrayal. While the novel excels in world-building, character development, and plot intricacies, some readers may yearn for a bit more fire and spice in certain aspects of the narrative. However, the promise of future developments in the series offers hope for an even more dynamic and engaging story to come. I know I personally cannot wait to get into book 2. With a cliffhanger ending that leaves hearts racing and minds reeling, "Queen of Roses" succeeds in immersing readers from start to finish. Its dark and twisted fantasy elements are expertly balanced with moments of adventure, action, and unexpected twists, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page. As the story delves into complex themes and explores the depths of its characters' struggles and desires, it's important to note that "Queen of Roses" may contain triggering content. Readers are advised to check the trigger warnings before diving into this captivating tale. Overall, "Queen of Roses" is a must-read for fans of dark fantasy romance, offering a mesmerizing journey that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the series. With its lush prose, intricate storytelling, and unforgettable characters, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who venture into its enchanted world. I want to extend a heartfelt shoutout to the author for granting me the opportunity to dive into "Queen of Roses" through NetGalley. It has been an absolute pleasure to explore the captivating world and characters crafted with such skill and imagination. Thank you for entrusting me with this glimpse into your enchanting world.
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Reviewed in the United States on April 1, 2024
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Luna Fae
Battle Creek, US
★★★★★ 4
Right from the start, I was drawn in by the prologue!!!
Format: Paperback, Format: Paperback
Queen of Roses (Blood of a Fae #1) by Briar Boleyn Genre General Fiction ( Adult), Romance, Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Dark Romance “More primordial than the stars. My name was on his lips as he promised unspeakable darkness to any who came between us.” Right from the start, I was drawn in by the prologue!!! I’m a big fan of “touch her, and you die” vibes, but I mean, what’s also not to love about a unique Arthurian retelling with gender twists, a treacherous royal court, a dangerous quest, magical Fae & mystical monsters, entwined with a bit of spice! Morgan, Princess of Pendrath and true heir to the throne has spent most of her life dimming her light to feel safe and to make others comfortable. She is treated as an outcast in the court and repressed by her family due to the blood of the Fae within her and forced to join the Temple of the Three as a priestess in training to one day replace Merlin. Her brother, King Arthur, who reminds me of Joffrey from Game of Thrones, later tells her that he has other plans and offers her a choice of the Temple or to marry her off for political gain, unless… that is, she can journey through the great unknown and return with a long-lost fae weapon with enchanted powers known as Excalibur. Her quest begins with a roguish crew that includes the mysterious, arrogant, and heart-tuggingly handsome Captain of the Royal Guard, Kairos Draven, whom she can’t decide if she wants to stab or indulge in pleasure with. Along the way are plenty of surprises, mystical creatures, and betrayal, all while Morgan uncovers more of the truth about herself and who she can trust. This book had intriguing storylines and lovable characters that kept me turning pages and wanting more. I can’t wait to see how it all unfolds and comes together in book 2, Court of Claws, which I just started reading!! Read if you’re into- Dark Fantasy/Romance Slow–Burn Question Everything Magic and Action Fae Arthurian Legend Stabby/Broken FFC Morally Gray MMC Forced Proximity Queen of Roses is perfect for Holly Black, Jennifer L. Armentrout, and Sarah J. Maas fans. Please check the trigger warnings page in the table of contents before reading this book.
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Reviewed in the United States on August 16, 2023
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Amanda Greathouse
Alexandria, US
★★★★★ 3
3.5 stars, A little boring to say the least.
Format: Kindle
Wow so I'm not sure where to begin on this one. This was a very different take on the legend of Arthur and Excalibur. This is told from the point of view of Morgan the sister of Arthur. Honestly the first 50% of this book is world building and character building which unfortunately was super boring for me. Morgan to me was a female MC that had a hard time in believing in herself. Sometimes taking too long to understand exactly what was going on around her. Draven was also a different male MC, like I couldn't put my finger on him and what he was all about. It was not until the last 10% of the book did we get some answers on the mystery that is Draven. The other 50% of the book centered around this big journey with everyone having a different motive. We see a spark of magic around this time that had me excited but then we never expanded upon that and what it could mean for the female MC. I feel like I want to read the second book just to see where this goes, but the spice was probably a 2 out of 5. Side characters are ok, Lancelet was fun but I almost felt like I wanted more.
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Reviewed in the United States on September 13, 2023
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Krystina
Whiting, US
★★★★★ 5
A bewitching retelling of Arthurian legend!
Format: Kindle
In a land where the Fae have nearly become only a legend and those who still posses even a morsel of the blood are few and far between, Morgan finds herself cast aside by most of society due to her rumored half-Fae lineage, including her brother, King Arthur. With the kingdom at the brink of war, Arthur entrusts her with a quest to retrieve a Fae weapon of legendary power: the sword of Perun, Excalibur. Accompanied by men she loathes, Captain Kairos Draven and Ragnar Whitehorn, she embarks on her long and unbeknownst perilous journey, only to find that things she once believed to be myth are in fact very real. With devastating twists, omitted truths, witty banter and fierce action, Queen of Roses leaves you begging to know more about the secrets of Aercanum! Wow, wow, wow! Going into this story, I did not realize that it was going to be a retelling of Arthurian legend, especially not one with a fantastical twist! The unique spin almost gave me The Witcher vibes and I think adding Fae into the mix was quite interesting. I knew the basics of the legend but after reading this book, it has piqued my interest and makes me want to learn more about it. My attention was snatched as soon as I finished the prologue and I knew that I was going to devour this story. I truly enjoyed the gender swaps and even how Arthur was portrayed as villainous. Morgan’s past and even her parts of her present is absolutely heartbreaking, and I felt for her at times. I can only recall one other book that made me hate characters the way I despised Florian and Arthur, leaving me with my blood boiling and feeling disgusted. Even after finishing the book, Draven is still a mystery to me and I cannot figure out how to feel about him. I guess they just means that the author did an excellent job at conveying each character’s persona! The rich world building and imagery made it easy for me to visualize the places that the group visited along their journey. I am truly engulfed in this story and I cannot wait to see wait fate awaits Morgan and how the Fae will be even more incorporated in the next book!. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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Reviewed in the United States on August 11, 2023
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Tiana
Draper, US
★★★★★ 4
Enchanting
Format: Kindle
"Queen of Roses" by Briar Boleyn is a delightful and refreshing reimagining of the classic tale of King Arthur, with a captivating twist that places the spotlight on Morgan, a character who has often been overshadowed in traditional retellings. Boleyn's creative decision to shift the narrative perspective to Morgan breathes new life into the story, offering readers an intriguing and compelling look at the Arthurian world from an entirely different angle. One of the most commendable aspects of this book is its incorporation of Fae elements, which adds an enchanting layer of magic and mystery to the already familiar Arthurian setting. Boleyn skillfully weaves the world of the Fae into the narrative, creating a captivating backdrop against which the events of the story unfold. This addition not only adds depth to the world-building but also provides ample opportunities for twists and turns that keep readers thoroughly engrossed. However, while the book boasts numerous strengths, it does have one noticeable flaw: the characterization of Morgan. While it is reasonable to create a flawed and complex protagonist, it appears that at times, Morgan's character becomes overly difficult and hard to relate to. Her persistently negative perception of one of the main male characters, who is a potential love interest, despite his efforts to support and assist her, may come across as somewhat irrational and could test the patience of some readers. Striking a balance between a strong, independent character and one who can recognize genuine support and affection could have enhanced the overall reader experience. Nonetheless, the allure of "Queen of Roses" lies in its innovative approach to the Arthurian legend and its skillful blending of fantasy elements into a familiar narrative. Boleyn's evocative prose draws readers into a world where magic, destiny, and fate entwine, leaving us eager to uncover the mysteries that unfold within the pages. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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Reviewed in the United States on July 28, 2023

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