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Description
Blossfeldia Liliputana, also known as the “Thumb Cactus,” is a small cactus species that belongs to the Cactaceae family. It is native to the high altitude regions of the Andes Mountains in South America, particularly in Argentina, Bolivia, and Peru. This cactus species is known for its unique appearance and its ability to survive in harsh conditions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Blossfeldia |
| Species | Blossfeldia Liliputana |
Appearance
Blossfeldia Liliputana is a small cactus that grows up to 1 inch in height and 1 inch in diameter. Its body is spherical or cylindrical, with a green or gray-green color. It has 5-10 ribs that are deeply divided into tubercles, which give the cactus a bumpy appearance. The tubercles have small, white spines that grow up to 2mm in length. Blossfeldia Liliputana produces small flowers that are white or pink in color and bloom in the summer.
Care Guide
Blossfeldia Liliputana is a hardy cactus that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for growing and caring for this cactus:Water: Blossfeldia Liliputana is a desert plant that can survive long periods of drought. It is important to water this cactus sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between watering. Overwatering can cause root rot and kill the plant.Fertilization: Blossfeldia Liliputana does not require regular fertilization. You can feed it with a cactus fertilizer once or twice a year during the growing season.Soil: Blossfeldia Liliputana prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can use a cactus mix or create your own by mixing sand, perlite, and peat moss.Sunlight: Blossfeldia Liliputana requires bright, direct sunlight to thrive. It can survive in partial shade, but it may not flower as often.Hardiness Zones: Blossfeldia Liliputana can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C) and as high as 90°F (32°C). It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Blossfeldia Liliputana is a hardy cactus that is not prone to pests and diseases. However, here are some issues that you may encounter:Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small insects that feed on the sap of the cactus. They leave behind a white, cottony substance on the plant. You can remove mealybugs with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.Root Rot: Root rot is caused by overwatering and can cause the cactus to wilt and die. To prevent root rot, allow the soil to dry completely between watering.
Habitat
Blossfeldia Liliputana is native to the Andes Mountains in South America, particularly in Argentina, Bolivia, and Peru. It grows in high altitude regions that experience extreme temperature fluctuations and low rainfall. Blossfeldia Liliputana is commonly found growing on rocky outcrops and cliffs.
Question and Answer
Q. Can Blossfeldia Liliputana grow indoors?
A. Yes, Blossfeldia Liliputana can grow indoors as long as it receives bright, direct sunlight.Q. How often should I water Blossfeldia Liliputana?
A. Water Blossfeldia Liliputana sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between watering.Q. Does Blossfeldia Liliputana require special soil?
A. Blossfeldia Liliputana prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can use a cactus mix or create your own by mixing sand, perlite, and peat moss.Q. Can Blossfeldia Liliputana survive in cold temperatures?
A. Blossfeldia Liliputana can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C) and is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
Here are some cactus species that are related to Blossfeldia Liliputana:- Astrophytum asterias- Echinocactus grusonii- Echinocereus coccineus- Mammillaria elongata- Opuntia microdasys
References
– “Blossfeldia.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 12 Aug 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=BLOSS.- “Blossfeldia Liliputana.” Cactus Art Nursery. Accessed 12 Aug 2021. https://www.cactus-art.biz/schede/BLOSSFELDIA/Blossfeldia_liliputana/Blossfeldia_liliputana/Blossfeldia_liliputana.htm.- “Thumb Cactus (Blossfeldia Liliputana).” Plant Care Today. Accessed 12 Aug 2021. https://plantcaretoday.com/thumb-cactus-blossfeldia-liliputana.html.
