Contents
Description
Blossfeldia is a genus of cactus that is native to the Andes Mountains in South America. It is known for being the smallest cactus in the world, with some species only growing up to one inch in diameter and height. Despite its small size, Blossfeldia is a popular plant for collectors because of its unique appearance and hardy nature.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Blossfeldia |
Appearance
Blossfeldia cacti are small and globular, with a diameter of one inch or less. They typically have five to eight ribs and are covered in small, white spines. The flowers of Blossfeldia are equally small, with a diameter of only 1/4 inch, and come in shades of pink, red, or white. The flowers bloom in the summer and are followed by small, spherical fruits.
Care Guide
Blossfeldia cacti are relatively easy to care for and can be grown indoors or outdoors. They prefer well-draining soil and should be watered sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Blossfeldia should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a cactus-specific fertilizer. They require full sun and can tolerate temperatures as low as 30 degrees Fahrenheit, making them hardy to zone 9a.
Common Pests & Diseases
Blossfeldia cacti are generally hardy and resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be treated with a solution of dish soap and water or with a commercial insecticide. Blossfeldia can also be affected by root rot if overwatered, so it is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Blossfeldia cacti are native to the high-altitude regions of the Andes Mountains in South America, where they grow in rocky soils and crevices. They are adapted to the harsh conditions of their native habitat and can withstand extreme temperatures, high altitudes, and low levels of rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Blossfeldia cacti be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Blossfeldia cacti can be grown indoors as long as they are provided with plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil.
Q: How often should Blossfeldia cacti be watered?
A: Blossfeldia cacti should be watered sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Blossfeldia cacti?
A: Blossfeldia cacti are hardy to zone 9a, which means they can tolerate temperatures as low as 20 to 25 degrees Fahrenheit.
Q: What is the smallest species of Blossfeldia?
A: The smallest species of Blossfeldia is Blossfeldia liliputana, which has a diameter of only 0.4 inches.
Related Plants
- Astrophytum
- Mammillaria
- Gymnocalycium
- Echinocereus
References
- “Blossfeldia.” Cactus Art Nursery. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://cactus-art.biz/schede/BLOSSFELDIA/Blossfeldia/Blossfeldia/Blossfeldia.htm.
- “Blossfeldia Species.” World of Succulents. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://worldofsucculents.com/?genera=blossfeldia.
- “Blossfeldia.” Wikipedia. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blossfeldia.
