About Myrtillocactus chiotilla (F.A.C.Weber ex K.Schum.) P.V.Heath
This species, previously described as the tree-like Escontria chiotilla, is heavily branched with flat-topped growth, forms distinct trunks, and reaches a height of 4 to 7 meters. Its light green, cylindrical shoots have a diameter of 8 to 12 cm (3.1 to 4.7 in). It has 7 or 8 acute ribs, densely covered with dark gray, elongated areoles that sometimes merge into one another. It typically has one central spine, which is red-orange to yellow, turns gray with age, and grows up to 20 mm (0.79 in) long. The 10 to 20 marginal spines, sometimes arranged in a somewhat comb-like pattern, are yellowish-brown, become grayish-white with age, and reach up to 12 mm (0.47 in) long. The yellow, tubular to somewhat bell-shaped flowers open during the day and appear below the tip of the shoot. It produces dark red fruits that are comparable in appearance and texture to pitaya, but smaller at 3.5 cm. The spherical, fleshy, scaled fruits are purple-brown and have a diameter of 5 cm (2.0 in) or more. The species is native to Mexico, where it occurs in Guerrero, Michoacán, Oaxaca, and southern Puebla.
