Cleistocactus Straussii and
Euphorbia bupleurifolia

Cleistocactus straussii is native to Northern Argentina and Southern Bolivia. This cactus is one that was planted directly into the ground when it was only a single shoot about three inches tall. Starts have been taken from it which are doing very well. The tallest spire which is the original plant is 28.5 inches tall. Care must be exercised when working around this one, because those spines are stiff and deliver a nasty stab wound.

To the left of Cleistocactus straussii is a potted Pachypodium sp (Thanks to Michael, who helped me correctly identify it). This plant looks prehistoric to me for some reason. This succulent's thick stem is covered is long spikes which look like scales or tubercles. Green leaves grow out of crown of the plant. It's a beauty, and one of my favorites.