Porfiria

Family. Cactaceae.

Origin. Mexico.

Description. The genus Porfiria consists of only 1 species of small cacti. The root system lies very deep, rod-shaped. The stem is dark green, spherical or slightly flattened on top. The ribs are deep and arranged in a spiral. The tubercles are clearly defined, cone-shaped. The spines are straight, strong, short - up to 5 cm long. In spring, fairly large pale pink or white flowers with many long, narrow petals appear at the top of the stem. After flowering, pink or red large, oblong fruits are formed.

Height. Up to 8 cm, grows very slowly.

Care at home

Temperature conditions

In spring and summer, a temperature range from 18 to 24° C is suitable; in the winter months, coolness is required - take the cactus into a room with a temperature of about 12° C. 

Lighting

Like many cacti, porfiria will enjoy direct sunlight in the morning and evening, requiring light shade during the daytime hours.

Care

A very spectacular and rare species that can be grown by experienced cactus growers. Own-rooted specimens are susceptible to rotting at the slightest waterlogging.

Substrate

The soil should easily pass water and air, pH not higher than 5.6. A mixture of leaf humus, turf soil with a large amount of coarse river sand or perlite to improve drainage and small pieces of charcoal is suitable. You can use a ready-made substrate for cacti and succulents.

Feeding

During the growth period, feed with fertilizers specially designed for cacti and succulent plants on a monthly basis. During the dormant period, feeding is stopped. 

Purpose

Porfirias are very attractive and will be appreciated by collectors. Often cacti are planted in shallow pots to expose a large root system.

Flowering time

Spring.

Air humidity

It does not require spraying and easily tolerates dry air in living spaces. Provide the flower with a place with good air circulation without cold drafts.

Soil moisture

Even during the growing season, the soil should dry out to half its depth between waterings. In autumn, the frequency of watering is reduced, and in winter they simply protect the soil from completely drying out.

Transfer

Porfiria is replanted in the spring months, before flowering. Cacti can remain in the same soil for several years and do not require annual replanting. Surround the root collar with a layer of coarse sand or fine gravel for better moisture drainage. After transplantation, watering is stopped for 7 - 10 days.

Reproduction

Vaccinations. Seeds are sown in spring in damp sand, placed in a warm place, covered with glass or a plastic cap to maintain uniform humidity, and watering is replaced by spraying. The lateral shoots are separated with a sharp sterile knife, and the cut site is dried for several days. 

Pests and diseases

Cacti rot when there is excess moisture in the soil or air.

Red mites, mealybugs, thrips and aphids sometimes appear.

Note

When working with plants, use gloves to protect your hands from sharp thorns.