Contents
Description
Grusonia Emoryi, commonly known as Emory’s cholla, is a species of cactus that belongs to the Cactaceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in arid and semi-arid regions. This cactus has a cylindrical stem that can grow up to 2 meters tall and 5 cm in diameter, with numerous branches that are densely covered in spines. The stem is light green and covered in white woolly hairs, which help protect the plant from the intense desert sun.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Grusonia |
Appearance
Grusonia Emoryi is a striking cactus that can add beauty to any garden. Its stem is cylindrical and can grow up to 2 meters tall. The stem is light green and covered in white woolly hairs, which help protect the plant from the intense desert sun. The stem is densely covered in spines, which can range in color from yellow to brown. The flowers of this cactus are small and pink, and they bloom in late spring or early summer. The fruit of Grusonia Emoryi is small and dry, and it contains numerous seeds that can be used for propagation.
Care Guide
Grusonia Emoryi is a hardy cactus that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you care for your Emory’s cholla:
- Water: This cactus is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water only when the soil is completely dry, and be careful not to over-water, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Grusonia Emoryi does not require fertilization, but you can use a cactus fertilizer once a year to promote healthy growth.
- Soil: This cactus prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. You can use a cactus mix or make your own by mixing sand, perlite, and peat moss.
- Sunlight: Grusonia Emoryi requires full sun to thrive. Place your cactus in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Grusonia Emoryi is hardy in USDA zones 8b to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Grusonia Emoryi is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled by spraying the cactus with a solution of water and dish soap or using a commercial insecticide. This cactus can also be susceptible to root rot if it is over-watered or grown in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
Grusonia Emoryi is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in arid and semi-arid regions. This cactus can be found in desert scrub and rocky slopes, where it can tolerate extreme heat and drought conditions. It is well adapted to its environment and can survive on little water.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Grusonia Emoryi?
A: Water only when the soil is completely dry, and be careful not to over-water, as this can lead to root rot.
Q: What kind of soil does Grusonia Emoryi prefer?
A: This cactus prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. You can use a cactus mix or make your own by mixing sand, perlite, and peat moss.
Q: What pests are common on Grusonia Emoryi?
A: Mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects can be common pests on this cactus.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Grusonia Emoryi?
A: This cactus is hardy in USDA zones 8b to 11.
Related Plants
- Grusonia pulchella
- Grusonia parishii
- Grusonia aggeria
- Grusonia bradtiana
References
- “Grusonia emoryi.” World of Succulents, https://worldofsucculents.com/grusonia-emoryi-emorys-cholla/. Accessed 31 Aug. 2021.
- “Grusonia emoryi.” Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, https://www.desertmuseum.org/programs/sbi_plant_ind.php?scientific_name=Grusonia+emoryi. Accessed 31 Aug. 2021.
- “Grusonia emoryi (Emory’s Cholla).” Cactus Art Nursery, https://www.cactus-art.biz/schede/GRUSONIA/Grusonia_emoryi/Grusonia_emoryi/Grusonia_emoryi.htm. Accessed 31 Aug. 2021.
