Arrojadoa Rhodantha is a cactus species native to Brazil. It belongs to the Cactaceae family and is commonly known as “Pink Torch” due to its striking pink flowers. This cactus is a popular choice among collectors and gardeners alike for its unique appearance and low maintenance requirements.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukaryota |
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Tracheophyta |
Class | Magnoliopsida |
Order | Caryophyllales |
Family | Cactaceae |
Genus | Arrojadoa |
Appearance
The Arrojadoa Rhodantha has a cylindrical stem that can grow up to 6 inches in diameter and 3 feet tall. The stem is dark green and has 8 to 10 ribs with small spines. The stem is covered in a powdery white substance called “bloom”. The flowers of the Arrojadoa Rhodantha are pink and bloom in the summer months. The flowers are small, only about 1 inch in diameter, but they are numerous and cover the top of the stem. The fruit of the Arrojadoa Rhodantha is a small, reddish-brown berry that contains seeds.
Care Guide
Arrojadoa Rhodantha is a low maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for your Arrojadoa Rhodantha:
- Water: Water your Arrojadoa Rhodantha once a week during the growing season and once a month during the winter months. Make sure the soil is completely dry before watering.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your Arrojadoa Rhodantha once a month during the growing season with a cactus fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a well-draining cactus soil mix for your Arrojadoa Rhodantha.
- Sunlight: Arrojadoa Rhodantha prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Arrojadoa Rhodantha can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Arrojadoa Rhodantha is relatively pest and disease-free, but here are some issues to watch out for:
- Mealybugs: These small, white insects can infest the Arrojadoa Rhodantha and cause damage. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove mealybugs.
- Scale: Scale insects can also infest the Arrojadoa Rhodantha. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove scale.
- Rot: Overwatering can cause the Arrojadoa Rhodantha to rot. Make sure the soil is completely dry before watering.
Habitat
The Arrojadoa Rhodantha is native to Brazil and can be found in the rocky areas of the Caatinga biome. It grows at an elevation of 100 to 1,000 meters above sea level.
Question and Answer
- Q: Can Arrojadoa Rhodantha grow in a small pot?
- A: Yes, Arrojadoa Rhodantha can be grown in a small pot. Just make sure the pot has drainage holes and use a well-draining cactus soil mix.
- Q: How often should I fertilize my Arrojadoa Rhodantha?
- A: Fertilize your Arrojadoa Rhodantha once a month during the growing season with a cactus fertilizer.
- Q: Can Arrojadoa Rhodantha tolerate full sun?
- A: Arrojadoa Rhodantha prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can also tolerate partial shade.
- Q: Can Arrojadoa Rhodantha be propagated from cuttings?
- A: Yes, Arrojadoa Rhodantha can be propagated from stem cuttings. Allow the cuttings to callus over for a few days before planting in well-draining cactus soil mix.
Related Plants
- Arrojadoa Dinae
- Arrojadoa Penicillata
- Arrojadoa Marylaniae
References
- Cactus Art Nursery. (n.d.). Arrojadoa rhodantha. Retrieved from http://www.cactus-art.biz/schede/ARROJADOA/Arrojadoa_rhodantha/Arrojadoa_rhodantha/arrojadoa_rhodantha.htm
- Miranda, F., Machado, M., & Zappi, D. (2013). Arrojadoa rhodantha. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2013: e.T152313A675328. https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2013-1.RLTS.T152313A675328.en
- The Spruce. (2020). How to Grow and Care for the Pink Torch Cactus. Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/pink-torch-cactus-care-4125369