Contents
Description
Corryocactus Erectus is a species of cactus that belongs to the Cactaceae family. It is native to South America, specifically to Argentina, Bolivia, and Peru. The plant is known for its cylindrical and branching stems that can grow up to 6 meters in height. Its stems are ribbed and have prominent areolas that can produce spines and flowers. The flowers of Corryocactus Erectus are usually yellow, but can also be orange or red. The plant’s fruit is an edible berry that is green when unripe and turns red when it matures. Corryocactus Erectus is also known as the tree cholla or erect tree cholla.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Corryocactus |
Appearance
Corryocactus Erectus has cylindrical and branching stems that can grow up to 6 meters in height. Its stems are ribbed and have prominent areolas that can produce spines and flowers. The spines of the plant can range from yellow to brown and can be up to 10 centimeters long. The flowers of Corryocactus Erectus are usually yellow, but can also be orange or red. They are funnel-shaped and can grow up to 5 centimeters in diameter. The fruit of the plant is an edible berry that is green when unripe and turns red when it matures. The fruit can grow up to 3.5 centimeters in diameter.
Care Guide
Corryocactus Erectus is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and high temperatures. However, it still needs proper care to thrive. Here are some tips on how to take care of your Corryocactus Erectus:
- Water: Water your Corryocactus Erectus sparingly during the growing season, which is from spring to fall. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. In the winter, reduce watering to once a month.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your Corryocactus Erectus once a month during the growing season with a cactus fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the package for the correct dosage.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is specifically designed for cacti and succulents. You can also add perlite or sand to the soil mix to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: Corryocactus Erectus needs full sun to thrive. Place it in a location where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Corryocactus Erectus can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b.
Common Pests & Diseases
Corryocactus Erectus is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues that you may encounter:
- Mealybugs: These pests can infest the plant and cause damage. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them.
- Root rot: Overwatering can cause root rot. If you notice that the stems are soft and mushy, stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out.
Habitat
Corryocactus Erectus is native to South America, specifically to Argentina, Bolivia, and Peru. It grows in dry and arid regions, such as deserts and high-altitude plateaus. The plant can also be found in rocky areas and on hillsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Corryocactus Erectus a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Corryocactus Erectus is a hardy plant that can tolerate neglect and is easy to care for.
Q: Can Corryocactus Erectus be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Corryocactus Erectus can be grown indoors as long as it receives enough sunlight and is not overwatered.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Corryocactus Erectus?
A: You should fertilize your Corryocactus Erectus once a month during the growing season with a cactus fertilizer.
Q: Is the fruit of Corryocactus Erectus edible?
A: Yes, the fruit of Corryocactus Erectus is edible and is often used to make jelly and jam.
Related Plants
- Corryocactus brevistylus
- Corryocactus enneacanthus
- Corryocactus melanotrichus
- Corryocactus pulquiensis
- Corryocactus tarijensis
References
- “Corryocactus erectus.” World of Succulents. https://worldofsucculents.com/corryocactus-erectus-tree-cholla/
- “Corryocactus erectus.” Cactus Art. https://cactus-art.biz/schede/CORRYOCACTUS/Corryocactus_erectus/Corryocactus_erectus/corryocactus_erectus.htm
- “Corryocactus erectus.” LLIFLE. http://www.llifle.com/Encyclopedia/CACTI/Family/Cactaceae/12921/Corryocactus_erectus
