The Many Forms of Cereus forbesii

Cacti come in all shapes and sizes, but few species show off as much variety as Cereus forbesii. These unusual forms have arisen from natural mutations, creating an incredible range of crests, twists, and other growth forms. Today, we’re taking a closer look at the most popular types of Cereus forbesii and why collectors can’t get enough of them.

Columnar Form (Cereus forbesii)

Let’s start with the classic columnar form of Cereus forbesii. Native to South America, this cactus grows in upright, columnar stems that branch out like a tree as it matures, and can reach heights up to about 3 meters tall. Its skin is a lovely blue-green with narrow ribs and white to brown spines. It’s fast-growing and blooms with beautiful, white, night-blooming flowers, and this is the same across all forms. 

Spiral Cactus (Cereus forbesii spiralis)

The showstopper of the group is the Spiral Cactus. This is a naturally occurring mutation that causes the stem to twist dramatically as it grows, creating a surreal corkscrew effect. Sometimes they have a perfect spiral, sometimes they change directions, and sometimes they can’t really decide which way they want to go. Even within this species, there are a few varieties being cultivated such as: the “spiral staircase”, “Turbulence”, Variegated spirals, and more!

(The variegation can be marbled, sometimes it will follow a single rib, highlight the margins of the ribs, and in a few rare cases, display as a striking quasi-variegation we are calling ‘Tiger Striping’)

It’s fast-growing, easy to care for, and undeniably eye-catching, making it one of the most sought-after cactus mutations. Incredible in landscapes or smaller gardens, the spiral cactus is a must-have plant (that we have available in all kinds of sizes on our website)

Monstrose Form (Cereus forbesii monstrose)

“Monstrose” means a plant has an abnormal growth pattern caused by a mutation that affects how new tissue forms. Instead of growing in straight, predictable columns, the stems develop irregular, knobby growths.

One popular form has been nicknamed “Ming Thing,” and it is truly a monstrous sight. Ming Thing produces lumpy growths that bulge unpredictably, almost like coral. Each plant grows in its own unique pattern, which is part of what makes them so fascinating to collect.

Crested Form (Cereus forbesii cristata)

The crested form, or Cereus forbesii cristata, takes the single growth point and flattens it into curling waves or brain-like folds. This cresting mutation can happen spontaneously and results in truly one-of-a-kind specimens, so no two will ever look the same. Just be on the lookout for pests, as they can very easily hide in between all of the bends and folds of this cactus.

Collect Them All!

Part of what makes Cereus forbesii so exciting is its genetic diversity. Whether you prefer the classic columnar shape, the intricate twists of the spiral, or the textured forms of its mutations, each variation offers its own kind of beauty. Collectively, they reveal just how versatile and expressive this species can be.