About Jasminocereus thouarsii (F.A.C.Weber) Backeb.
Jasminocereus thouarsii (F.A.C.Weber) Backeb. is a leafless, tree-like cactus that grows up to 7 m (23 ft) tall. It has green or greenish-yellow branching stems composed of individual segments 10–50 cm (4–20 in) long. Its trunk and branches have 11–22 ribs. Areoles on the cactus can hold up to 35 spines, each up to 9 cm (3+1⁄2 in) long. Spines range in color from white to black, and darken as they age. Flowers grow singly, open at night, and reach up to 6 cm (2+1⁄4 in) across. They have many creamy white to yellow or olive green petals and numerous stamens. The fruit is a berry that ranges in color from greenish to reddish purple, and holds many black seeds. Some sources recognize three varieties of this species, which differ in traits including height, flower texture, and fruit color. This cactus is endemic to the Galápagos Islands. It occurs on the islands of Fernandina, Floreana, Isabela, San Cristóbal, Santa Cruz, and Santiago, as well as smaller islets including Bartolomé. It grows in arid areas, ranging from the coast up to around 300 m (980 ft) elevation on larger islands. The fruits of Jasminocereus thouarsii, especially the variety delicatus among those who recognize this taxon, have been used to make a refreshing fruit juice.
