Tephrocactus

Family. Cactaceae.

Origin. Brazil, Argentina, Chile.

Description. Tephrocactus is a profusely branching cactus with segmented stems. The segments are oblong, rounded in cross-section, green or bluish, and covered with numerous low tubercles. The segments of Tephrocactus resemble cones. The length, size, shape, and color of the spines are highly variable. Some species may be covered with long, light, curved spines protruding in all directions, or may not have them at all. Some specimens have flat spines that resemble a ribbon. Flowers appear at the tops of young segments, in shades of yellow, white, or pink.

Height. 20 – 80 cm.

Home care

Temperature conditions

Easily tolerates very intense heat. During the growing season, normal room temperature is suitable; wintering is preferably cool, but the temperature should not fall below 6 ° C.

Lighting

A brightly lit location with access to direct sunlight in the morning and evening, every day.

Care

Tephrocactus requires a certain temperature regime and cannot always be grown by novice cactus growers. 

Substrate

The soil should easily pass water and air, pH not higher than 6.0. 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

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

A very decorative plant with an unusual appearance.

Flowering time

Summer, blooms only with good care.

Air humidity

Perfectly adapted to dry air, there is no need for spraying. In autumn and winter, place in a ventilated area. 

Soil moisture

Water in spring and summer until the earthen ball is completely soaked; be sure to remove excess water that has accumulated in the pan after watering. The soil should be dried between waterings. In the autumn-winter period, water extremely carefully - only to avoid drying out the earthen clod. 

Transfer

Replant if necessary in spring at the first signs of new growth.

Reproduction

Grafting is often used for propagation, but grafted specimens often do not bloom. Stem segments. Before planting, dry the cut site for several days so that the segments do not rot. Seeds.

Pests and diseases

Own-rooted plants are susceptible to rotting if there is insufficient drainage or excess moisture. Root scale insects and spider mites can disturb cacti from harmful insects.

Note

Take precautions when working with plants that have long thorns.