Neowerdermannia

Origin. Bolivia, northern Argentina.

Description. The genus Neowerdermannia consists of only 2 species of small spherical cacti. The stems are slightly flattened, green, up to 10 cm in diameter, the ribs are poorly expressed, large tubercles are much more noticeable. Long, brown, slightly curved spines are located between the tubercles. The flowers are funnel-shaped, appear at the top of the stem, white or pink, and open in the daytime. The diameter of the buds reaches 20 cm. After flowering, it forms small round fruits with a diameter of no more than 1 cm.

Height. Up to 15 cm.

Care at home

Temperature conditions

In spring and summer it will enjoy warm conditions at temperatures above 20°C. In winter it requires a cool dormant period at a temperature of 3 - 10°C in order to bloom profusely the following season. Neowerdermannias tolerate short-term frosts if they are in dry soil.

Lighting

It is advisable to choose a place where these cacti can receive direct sunlight. Shading is necessary on hot summer days. In autumn and winter, provide with as much light as possible. Can tolerate partial shade.

Care

Neowerdermannia is quite difficult to grow on its own roots; grafted plants are more often used.

Substrate

Ready-made mineral mixture for cacti with the addition of a large amount of coarse river sand, which will improve soil drainage. The root collar of the cactus can be surrounded with coarse sand or fine gravel.

Feeding

Feed monthly in the spring and summer with a high-potassium, low-nitrogen fertilizer specifically formulated for cacti and succulents. Fertilizers are diluted to half the recommended dose.

Purpose

A small cactus that is quite difficult to maintain, but it will be highly appreciated by lovers of curiosities.

Flowering time

May June.

Air humidity

There is no need for spraying. In autumn and winter, the air in the room where the cactus is kept should be dry. Try to place the plant in a place where there is good air movement.

Soil moisture

Water carefully - dry the soil at least half between waterings. In autumn, the frequency of watering is reduced and the plant is allowed to go into a dormant state. Try not to water in rainy or cloudy weather. In winter they are kept in almost dry soil.

Transfer

Neowerdermannia needs a deep pot, as its system is quite large. Repot mature specimens in spring, before buds form, every 2-3 years.

Reproduction

Sowing seeds in the ground in spring and summer, grafting onto more hardy rootstocks. Stem cuttings are rooted in damp sand, having first dried the cut site.

Pests and diseases

Neowerdermannias are susceptible to rot - make sure that water does not stagnate in the pan and that the soil does not become waterlogged.

Red mites, mealybugs, thrips and aphids sometimes appear.

Note

The central spines of Neoverdermania are often equipped with hooks - be careful when handling this cactus.