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Description
Cylindropuntia Fulgida Var. Mamillata, also known as the Órgano Alambre, is a cactus of the Cylindropuntia genus that is native to the Sonoran Desert in Mexico and the southwestern United States. It is a cylindrical cactus with a diameter of up to 10 cm and can grow up to 3 meters in height. The plant features sharp spines that can grow up to 5 cm long and small clusters of yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. Its fruit is a small, spiny, reddish-brown ball that contains seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Cylindropuntia |
| Species: | Fulgida |
| Variety: | Mamillata |
Appearance
Cylindropuntia Fulgida Var. Mamillata is a unique cactus with a cylindrical shape that can grow up to 3 meters in height. It has a diameter of up to 10 cm and features sharp spines that can grow up to 5 cm long. The plant also has small clusters of yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. Its fruit is a small, spiny, reddish-brown ball that contains seeds. The plant’s appearance makes it a popular choice for landscaping in arid regions.
Care Guide
Caring for Cylindropuntia Fulgida Var. Mamillata is relatively easy. Here are some care tips:
- Water: This cactus can survive long periods without water, so be careful not to overwater it. Water it only when the soil is completely dry.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the cactus once a year during the growing season with a cactus fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a well-draining cactus soil mix or create your own mix by combining sand, perlite, and peat moss.
- Sunlight: This cactus prefers full sun exposure but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Cylindropuntia Fulgida Var. Mamillata is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cylindropuntia Fulgida Var. Mamillata is generally disease-free and pest-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Prickly pear cactus borers and cochineal insects may also infest the plant. Insecticides can be used to control these pests.
Habitat
Cylindropuntia Fulgida Var. Mamillata is native to the Sonoran Desert in Mexico and the southwestern United States. It is commonly found in arid regions, including rocky slopes and desert washes. The plant thrives in dry, hot, and sunny conditions and can tolerate temperatures up to 50°C.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cylindropuntia Fulgida Var. Mamillata a good choice for landscaping?
A: Yes, this cactus is a popular choice for landscaping in arid regions due to its unique appearance and low maintenance requirements.
Q: How often should I water this cactus?
A: Water the plant only when the soil is completely dry, which can be once every few weeks to once a month depending on the climate and season.
Q: What is the best soil mix for this cactus?
A: Use a well-draining cactus soil mix or create your own mix by combining sand, perlite, and peat moss.
Q: How tall can this cactus grow?
A: Cylindropuntia Fulgida Var. Mamillata can grow up to 3 meters in height.
Related Plants
- Cylindropuntia imbricata
- Cylindropuntia leptocaulis
- Cylindropuntia spinosior
References
- “Cylindropuntia fulgida”. Cactus Art Nursery. Retrieved 2021-07-13.
- “Cylindropuntia fulgida var. mamillata”. Desert Tropicals. Retrieved 2021-07-13.
- “Cylindropuntia fulgida var. mamillata”. Flora of North America. Retrieved 2021-07-13.
