Cereus cactus

The term "cereus" is also sometimes used for any cactus with a very elongated body, including columnar growth cacti and epiphytic cacti. Cereus are shrubby or treelike, often attaining great heights. Most stems are angled or distinctly ribbed, usually well developed and have large areoles, usually bearing spines. The name is derived from Greek (κηρός) and Latin words meaning "wax" or "torch".