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Description
Coryphantha Pallida, commonly known as the Pale Cory Cactus, is a small cactus native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. It belongs to the family Cactaceae and is known for its attractive, pale greenish-white spines that contrast with its green stem. The plant is slow-growing and can reach up to 6 inches in height and 4 inches in width. It produces small pinkish-white flowers in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Coryphantha |
| Species: | Pallida |
Appearance
The Pale Cory Cactus has a globular, stem-succulent shape that grows to about 6 inches tall and 4 inches wide. This cactus has pale greenish-white spines that grow in clusters and contrast with its green stem. The spines are straight, needle-like, and can grow up to 1 inch long. The plant produces small pinkish-white flowers that are about 1 inch in diameter and bloom in the summer.
Care Guide
Coryphantha Pallida is a hardy cactus that is easy to care for. Here is a care guide to help you keep your plant healthy:
Water: Water your Pale Cory Cactus sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely before watering again. During the winter months, reduce watering to once every two to three weeks.
Fertilization: Feed your cactus with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Soil: Use well-draining soil, such as a cactus mix or a mixture of sand, perlite, and peat moss.
Sunlight: Place your Pale Cory Cactus in a bright, sunny location, but protect it from direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.
Hardiness Zones: Coryphantha Pallida is hardy in USDA zones 8a to 10b.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Pale Cory Cactus is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. If you notice any of these pests, wipe them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Overwatering can also cause root rot, so be sure to let the soil dry out completely between waterings.
Habitat
Coryphantha Pallida is native to the southwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas) and Mexico. It grows in rocky, well-draining soils in desert regions, often in association with other cacti and succulents.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Pale Cory Cactus?
A: Water your cactus sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely before watering again. During the winter months, reduce watering to once every two to three weeks.
Q: How can I tell if my cactus is getting too much sun?
A: Look for signs of sunburn, such as brown or white spots on the stem. If you notice these signs, move your cactus to a shadier location.
Q: Can I grow Coryphantha Pallida indoors?
A: Yes, you can grow this cactus indoors as long as you provide it with bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Pale Cory Cactus?
A: Feed your cactus with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Related Plants
Here are some related cacti and succulents that you might be interested in:
- Coryphantha macromeris (Bigroot Cory Cactus)
- Agave americana (Century Plant)
- Echinocactus grusonii (Golden Barrel Cactus)
- Mammillaria elongata (Ladyfinger Cactus)
References
- “Coryphantha Pallida.” World of Succulents, https://worldofsucculents.com/coryphantha-pallida-pale-cory-cactus/. Accessed 18 August 2021.
- “Coryphantha Pallida.” Cactus Art Nursery, https://www.cactus-art.biz/schede/CORYPHANTHA/Coryphantha_pallida/Coryphantha_pallida/Coryphantha_pallida.htm. Accessed 18 August 2021.
- “Coryphantha Pallida.” Plant Lust, https://plantlust.com/plants/10400/coryphantha-pallida/. Accessed 18 August 2021.
