Contents
Description
Epithelantha is a small genus of cacti that are native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. These cacti are known for their unique appearance, with small, globular bodies that are covered in white, woolly hairs. They are also called “button cacti” because of their small size and round shape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Epithelantha |
Appearance
Epithelantha cacti are small, usually less than 2 inches in diameter. They have a globular shape and are covered in dense, white, woolly hairs. The hairs help protect the cactus from the sun and also help it retain moisture. The cacti have small, inconspicuous spines that grow from the woolly hairs. During the flowering season, Epithelantha cacti produce small, white or pink flowers that are less than an inch in diameter. The flowers are followed by small, red, berry-like fruits that are also less than an inch in diameter.
Care Guide
Epithelantha cacti are easy to care for and make great houseplants. Here are some care tips to keep them healthy:- Water: Epithelantha cacti should be watered sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot. – Fertilization: Epithelantha cacti do not need to be fertilized often. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer can be applied every 2-3 months during the growing season.- Soil: Epithelantha cacti prefer well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. A cactus mix or a mix of sandy soil and perlite is ideal.- Sunlight: Epithelantha cacti prefer bright, indirect sunlight. They can tolerate some direct sun, but too much can scorch the plant.- Hardiness Zones: Epithelantha cacti can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 9b-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Epithelantha cacti are relatively pest and disease-resistant, but they can be affected by mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can be a problem if the cactus is overwatered or if the soil does not drain well. To prevent root rot, be sure to use a well-draining soil mix and water the cactus sparingly.
Habitat
Epithelantha cacti are native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. They prefer hot, dry climates and can be found growing in rocky or sandy soils in deserts and grasslands.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Epithelantha cacti be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Epithelantha cacti make great indoor plants as long as they receive enough bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: Do Epithelantha cacti need to be pruned?
A: No, Epithelantha cacti do not need to be pruned. However, if the cactus becomes too tall or leggy, it can be cut back to encourage branching.
Q: How often should Epithelantha cacti be repotted?
A: Epithelantha cacti should be repotted every 2-3 years, or when the roots have outgrown the current pot.
Q: Can Epithelantha cacti be grown from seeds?
A: Yes, Epithelantha cacti can be grown from seeds. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and kept moist until they germinate.
Related Plants
– Mammillaria- Gymnocalycium- Ferocactus- Echinocactus
References
– “Epithelantha.” CactiGuide.com, www.cactiguide.com/cactus/?genus=Epithelantha.- “Epithelantha.” World of Succulents, worldofsucculents.com/genus/epithelantha/.- “Epithelantha.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 13 July 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epithelantha.
