The term "Genus Acanthocereus" refers to a group of cacti species that are characterized by their spiky, often branching stems. Synonyms for this term might include other Latin names such as Cereus acanthocarpus or Cereus pentagonus, since both of these refer to species that have historically been placed within the Acanthocereus genus. Other synonyms might be more informal common names, such as "barbed-wire cactus" or "walkingstick cactus", as these names are often used to describe specific species within the Acanthocereus group. Regardless of the specific terminology used, most synonyms for Acanthocereus will refer to cacti that share similar physical characteristics and growing habits.