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Description
Chaetadelpha Wheeleri, commonly known as Wheeler’s hedgehog cactus, is a small cactus species native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is a slow-growing cactus that can grow up to 6 inches in height and 8 inches in diameter. The plant has a rounded shape with a dense covering of spines. It produces vibrant pink to magenta flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Chaetadelpha |
Appearance
Chaetadelpha Wheeleri has a distinctive rounded shape with a dense covering of spines. The spines are straight and needle-like, ranging in color from white to yellow to reddish-brown. The plant produces vibrant pink to magenta flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. The flowers are tubular in shape and measure up to 2 inches in length.
Care Guide
Water: Chaetadelpha Wheeleri requires regular watering during the growing season from spring to fall. Allow the soil to dry out between watering to prevent root rot.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a cactus fertilizer.Soil: Plant Chaetadelpha Wheeleri in well-draining soil with a pH level of 6.0 to 7.5.Sunlight: Place the plant in a location that receives full sunlight for at least six hours a day.Hardiness Zones: Chaetadelpha Wheeleri is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Chaetadelpha Wheeleri is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with a spray of neem oil or insecticidal soap. The plant is also prone to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
Chaetadelpha Wheeleri is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It grows in rocky, well-draining soil in desert landscapes, often in association with other cacti and succulents.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Chaetadelpha Wheeleri a good indoor plant?
A: No, Chaetadelpha Wheeleri requires full sunlight and is better suited for outdoor cultivation.Q: How often should I fertilize Chaetadelpha Wheeleri?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season from spring to fall.Q: Can I propagate Chaetadelpha Wheeleri from cuttings?
A: Yes, Chaetadelpha Wheeleri can be propagated from stem cuttings.Q: What is the best soil for Chaetadelpha Wheeleri?
A: Plant Chaetadelpha Wheeleri in well-draining soil with a pH level of 6.0 to 7.5.
Related Plants
- Chaetadelpha densispina
- Chaetadelpha intertexta
- Chaetadelpha macdougalii
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/hedgehog-cactus/chaetadelpha-wheeleri.htm
- https://worldofsucculents.com/chaetadelpha-wheeleri-wheeler-hedgehog-cactus/
- https://cactiguide.com/cactus/?genus=Chaetadelpha&species=wheeleri
