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Description
Escobaria Chlorantha, commonly known as the green-flowered cactus, is a small cactus species native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It belongs to the family Cactaceae and is a popular choice for cactus collectors due to its attractive appearance and low maintenance requirements.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Escobaria |
Appearance
Escobaria Chlorantha is a small, slow-growing cactus that typically reaches a height of 3 to 6 inches (7.5 to 15 cm) and a width of 2 to 5 inches (5 to 12.5 cm). It has a globular or cylindrical shape and is covered in small, soft spines that are arranged in a spiral pattern. The spines are usually green or yellow in color and can be up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) long.The flowers of Escobaria Chlorantha are the main attraction of this cactus species. They are green or yellow in color and can be up to 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter. The flowers bloom in late spring or early summer and are followed by small, red or green fruit.
Care Guide
Escobaria Chlorantha is a relatively easy cactus species to care for, making it a popular choice for beginners. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Water your Escobaria Chlorantha sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.- Fertilization: Feed your Escobaria Chlorantha with a cactus-specific fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).- Soil: Plant your Escobaria Chlorantha in a well-draining cactus mix. Avoid using regular potting soil, as it can hold too much moisture and lead to root rot.- Sunlight: Place your Escobaria Chlorantha in a bright, sunny spot. It can tolerate some shade, but too little light can cause the plant to become spindly and weak.- Hardiness Zones: Escobaria Chlorantha is hardy in USDA zones 9a to 11b.
Common Pests & Diseases
Escobaria Chlorantha is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can still be affected by a few common issues. Here are some potential problems to look out for:- Mealybugs: These small, white insects can infest the plant and suck out its sap. They can be treated with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Root rot: Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, which can be fatal to the plant. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and allow it to dry out completely between waterings.- Sunburn: If your Escobaria Chlorantha is exposed to too much direct sunlight, it can become sunburned. This can cause the plant to turn brown or black and become soft or mushy. To prevent sunburn, provide some shade during the hottest part of the day.
Habitat
Escobaria Chlorantha is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It can be found growing in rocky, well-draining soil in desert and semi-desert regions. It is adapted to hot, dry climates and can tolerate periods of drought.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Escobaria Chlorantha?
A: Water your Escobaria Chlorantha sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: What kind of soil should I use for my Escobaria Chlorantha?
A: Plant your Escobaria Chlorantha in a well-draining cactus mix. Avoid using regular potting soil, as it can hold too much moisture and lead to root rot.
Q: When does Escobaria Chlorantha bloom?
A: The flowers of Escobaria Chlorantha bloom in late spring or early summer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Escobaria Chlorantha?
A: Escobaria Chlorantha is hardy in USDA zones 9a to 11b.
Related Plants
– Escobaria Minima- Escobaria Sneedii- Escobaria Vivipara- Mammillaria Spinosissima
References
– “Escobaria Chlorantha.” Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, www.desertmuseum.org/programs/sgnam_plant.php?scientificname=Escobaria+chlorantha.- “Escobaria Chlorantha.” World of Succulents, worldofsucculents.com/escobaria-chlorantha-green-flowered-cactus/.
