Uebelmannia

Family. Cactaceae.

Origin: Brazil. 

Description. The genus consists of 3 species of solitary cacti. Uebelmannia is one of the most spectacular plants in the family. The stems are spherical, with a flattened top, with age they can take on a cylindrical shape. The color of the stems is extremely variable and includes green, yellow, brown, burgundy and even almost black shades. The ribs are vertical, numerous, very deep. The tubercles are not pronounced, located very densely on the tops of the ribs. Areoles often have white felt pubescence. Spines are short, straight. Small flowers appear in abundance at the top of the stem, painted in a yellow or greenish hue, open during the daytime and fade the next day.

Height: Reaches 80 cm.

Home care

Temperature conditions

In spring and summer, the optimal temperature regime is 20 - 28° C. The dormant period should occur at a temperature of about 10 - 12° C.

Lighting

Plants can take sun baths in the morning and evening hours. On hot summer days, it is better to shade the uebelmannia. With good lighting, the stems acquire a reddish or purple hue.

Care

Uebelmannia requires special attention and is more suitable for experienced cactus growers.

Substrate

Slightly acidic, neutral or slightly alkaline soil with excellent drainage. Uebelmannia tolerates nutrient-poor mineral mixtures.

Feeding

Feed monthly during the growing season with fertilizers for succulent plants or cacti at half concentration. Stop feeding during the dormant period.

Purpose

A valuable collector's species, rarely seen in cultivation.

Flowering time

Summer, indoor flowering occurs rarely and only with proper care. 

Air humidity

Uebelmannia prefers warm and humid conditions during the growing season. In spring and summer, increase the humidity by misting the plants in the morning or using a room humidifier. Make sure that the moisture evaporates from the plant before dusk.  

Soil moisture

During the warm season, water generously, completely soaking the soil; in the winter months, simply protect the soil from drying out completely. 

Transplantation

Try to transplant only when necessary, in the spring. Plants should be planted in clay pots, the walls of which easily allow moisture and air to pass through. When planting, surround the root collar with a layer of coarse sand or small stones for better drainage of moisture. Stop watering for 5-7 days after transplanting.

Reproduction

Reproduction of uebelmannia is rarely successful indoors. Plants are propagated by seeds or by grafting onto less demanding cacti.

Pests and diseases

Uebelmannia easily rots if the temperature is too low in winter and if there is excessive watering.

Red spider mites, mealybugs, thrips and aphids sometimes appear.