Contents
Description
Harrisia, also known as the queen of the night or moon cactus, is a genus of cacti that belongs to the Cactaceae family. It is native to Central and South America, particularly in Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. The genus was named after William Harris, an English nurseryman who was the first to cultivate and exhibit the plant in Europe in the 19th century. Harrisia is a popular ornamental plant that is widely grown for its stunning flowers that bloom at night.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Harrisia |
Appearance
Harrisia is a columnar cactus that can grow up to 10 feet tall in the wild. However, cultivated plants usually grow up to 3-4 feet tall. The stem is dark green, cylindrical, and has prominent ribs that are covered with small spines. The flowers are large, white, and fragrant, and they bloom at night. The fruit is a red or yellowish berry that contains small black seeds. The plant is often grafted onto other cactus species to produce a colorful, spineless form.
Care Guide
Harrisia is a relatively easy plant to care for, and it can thrive in a wide range of conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for Harrisia:
- Water: Water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a well-draining, sandy soil mix that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Harrisia prefers bright, indirect light, but it can also tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Harrisia is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Harrisia is generally a healthy plant that is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, it can be attacked by mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Harrisia can also be affected by fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by avoiding overwatering and providing good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Harrisia is native to Central and South America, particularly in Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. It grows in a variety of habitats, from dry deserts to humid forests. The plant is often found growing on rocky slopes and cliffs, where it can take advantage of the well-draining soil and high light levels. Harrisia is also a popular ornamental plant that is grown in gardens and greenhouses around the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Harrisia be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Harrisia can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect light and is not overwatered.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Harrisia?
A: Harrisia should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Harrisia be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Harrisia can be propagated from stem cuttings. Simply cut a stem from the plant, let it dry for a few days, and then plant it in well-draining soil.
Q: Do Harrisia plants have any medicinal properties?
A: Some indigenous tribes in South America use Harrisia to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, headache, and inflammation.
Related Plants
- Epiphyllum
- Selenicereus
- Hylocereus
- Pereskia
References
- Anderson, E. F. (2001). The Cactus Family. Timber Press.
- Ryan, M. J. (2011). Growing Harrisia (Cactaceae). Cactus and Succulent Journal, 83(5), 235-241.
- Hunt, D., Taylor, N., & Charles, G. (2006). The New Cactus Lexicon. DH Books.
