Sphaerocaryum

Description

Sphaerocaryum is a genus of flowering plants in the family Caryophyllaceae. It is native to South America and is commonly known as ‘sphere fruit’. This small plant is known for its unique spherical fruit, which is why it’s named as such. It has become popular in the plant industry, especially in terrariums and indoor gardens due to its beautiful appearance and low maintenance requirements.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Sphaerocaryum is a small plant that grows up to 2 inches tall and 4 inches wide. It has thick, succulent-like leaves that grow in a rosette pattern. The leaves are green in color and have a waxy texture. The plant produces small white flowers that bloom in the summer. The most unique feature of Sphaerocaryum is its spherical fruit that grows to about 1/4 inch in diameter. The fruit starts out green and turns to a reddish-brown color when it’s ripe.

Care Guide

Sphaerocaryum is an easy plant to care for and requires minimal attention. Here are some tips to keep it healthy:

• Water: Water sparingly and only when the top inch of soil is dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
• Fertilization: Sphaerocaryum doesn’t require fertilizer, but you can use a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
• Soil: Plant in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5. Use a cactus or succulent mix if planting in a pot.
• Sunlight: Sphaerocaryum prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it can burn the leaves.
• Hardiness Zones: Sphaerocaryum is not frost-tolerant and is best grown in zones 10-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Sphaerocaryum is not prone to many pests or diseases, but here are some to keep an eye out for:

• Mealybugs: These small, white insects can be found on the leaves and stem. They can be removed by wiping them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
• Scale insects: These insects look like small, brown bumps on the leaves and stems. They can be controlled by wiping them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
• Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be prevented by allowing the soil to dry out between watering.

Habitat

Sphaerocaryum is native to South America and can be found in countries such as Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay. It grows in rocky areas and can be found growing on cliffs and in crevices.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Sphaerocaryum grow in low light conditions?

A: No, Sphaerocaryum requires bright, indirect sunlight to thrive.

Q: How often should I water Sphaerocaryum?

A: Water sparingly and only when the top inch of soil is dry.

Q: Can Sphaerocaryum be grown outdoors?

A: Sphaerocaryum is not frost-tolerant and is best grown indoors or in a greenhouse.

Q: How often should I fertilize Sphaerocaryum?

A: Sphaerocaryum doesn’t require fertilizer, but you can use a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

Related Plants

• Carnegia gigantea
• Echinocereus engelmannii
• Opuntia basilaris
• Sedum morganianum

References

• “Sphaerocaryum.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
• “Sphaerocaryum.” The Plant List. Version 1.1. 2013.
• “Sphaerocaryum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. 2021.