Solisia

Family. Cactaceae.

Origin. Mexico.

Description. Solisia is a miniature spherical cactus with a slightly depressed top. The stem is dark green with numerous vertical, indistinct ribs. The areoles are located close to each other and bear a large number of white spines curved along the body of the cactus. The spines are strong, often short. Flowers appear at the top of the stem, in delicate pastel colors - white, pink, up to 3 cm in diameter. They often form a wreath.

Height. It grows slowly, and even adult cacti remain miniature - no more than 10 cm.

Care at home

Temperature conditions

Easily tolerates the most intense summer heat. Overwinters at a temperature of 10 - 12° C. 

Lighting

In spring and summer, use light shading from direct sunlight during the daytime. In autumn and winter, lighting should be as high as possible.

Care

Solisia is suitable for experienced cactus growers, as it requires a certain temperature regime and often suffers from waterlogging.

Substrate

The soil should contain up to 40 percent of drainage material in the form of coarse river sand. A ready-made mineral mixture for cacti and succulent plants with a pH of no higher than 6.8 is suitable.

Feeding

Feed at half strength monthly in the spring and summer with a fertilizer specifically formulated for cacti and succulents that is high in potassium. In autumn and winter, fertilizing is not carried out - the plant needs rest.

Purpose

Solisia looks very attractive at any time of the year.

Flowering time

Summer.

Air humidity

There is no need for spraying; drops of moisture falling on densely thorny stems can cause rotting.

Soil moisture

Water in such a way that the soil dries out between waterings to a depth of 3 - 5 cm in spring and summer. In winter, watering is kept to a minimum and the cacti are kept in almost dry soil. It is advisable to use bottom watering.

Transfer

Solisia is replanted every 2 - 3 years, in the spring, into fresh soil. Select a deep unglazed clay pot with large drainage holes for planting. 

Reproduction

The cactus develops slowly on its own roots, so temporary rootstocks are often used to grow young seedlings. Propagation by cuttings and seeds is possible, but not always successful.

Pests and diseases

Self-rooted cacti rot at the slightest waterlogging, especially during autumn and winter.

Red mites, mealybugs, thrips and aphids sometimes appear.