Stetsonia Coryne (South American Saguaro)

Stetsonia coryne
Common Name: South American Saguaro

Stetsonia coryne, also known as the South American Saguaro or Toothpick Cactus, is a striking, slow-growing columnar cactus native to Argentina, Bolivia, and Paraguay. It features tall, tree-like stems with deep vertical ribs and fierce, dark spines that resemble sharpened toothpicks—making it both impressive and intimidating in appearance.

Its blue-green to olive stems can eventually form a branched, candelabra-like silhouette, reminiscent of the North American Carnegiea gigantea (true Saguaro), but with a more rugged and wild look. Mature plants can produce white, funnel-shaped night-blooming flowers, followed by edible fruits enjoyed by wildlife.

☀ Light Requirements
Prefers full sun. Outdoors, give it a bright, open space to grow tall and strong. Indoors, place near a south- or west-facing window or use high-output grow lights.

💧 Watering Needs
Water deeply only when the soil is completely dry. This species prefers long dry periods between waterings. Reduce watering in winter or during dormancy.

🌡 Temperature Tolerance
Hardy to about 25°F in dry conditions. Avoid wet soil in cold weather. For winter shipping or cold zones, we recommend adding a [Heat Pack].

✨ Special Features
• Sculptural Columnar Form – Tree-like shape adds vertical drama
• Dark Spines – Long, toothpick-like spines provide bold texture
• Wild Desert Aesthetic – A showstopper in any arid garden or collection

Other Common Names:
Toothpick Cactus, Argentine Toothpick, South American Saguaro

This cactus will ship bare root and will be ready to place directly in a well draining soil mix like our Custom Cactus Mix.

Photos in the listings unless otherwise specified are representative of the plant that will be sent to you.
However, Plants grow differently and each plant may vary slightly in shape, size, growth pattern, etc.
Of course, if you receive a plant that you are dissatisfied with please reach out to us. We want to make it right!

If temperatures near you are below 45℉ we highly recommend adding a Heat Pack to your order.
If temperatures where you live will be much lower than 20℉ even heat packs may not work. You may consider waiting until things warm up a bit. We know you love your plants just like we do and we wouldn't want any of them to freeze.