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Harrisia Aboriginum

Harrisia Aboriginum

Description

Harrisia Aboriginum, also known as the Aboriginal Queen Cactus, is a unique cactus species that is native to South America. It belongs to the Cactaceae family and is characterized by its tall, columnar stems that can grow up to 6 meters in height. The plant produces white or pink flowers that bloom at night and have a sweet fragrance. The fruit of the cactus is edible and has a sweet and juicy taste.

Taxonomic Information

Domain Eukaryota
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Tracheophyta
Class Magnoliopsida
Order Caryophyllales
Family Cactaceae
Genus Harrisia

Appearance

The Harrisia Aboriginum cactus has a tall, columnar stem that can reach up to 6 meters in height. The stem is green and has numerous, sharp spines that can grow up to 5 cm long. The cactus produces white or pink flowers that bloom at night and have a sweet fragrance. The fruit of the cactus is red and has a sweet and juicy taste.

Care Guide

The Harrisia Aboriginum cactus requires minimal care and attention. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:

  • Water: Water the plant sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
  • Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a cactus fertilizer.
  • Soil: Plant the cactus in well-draining soil, such as cactus mix or sandy soil.
  • Sunlight: The Harrisia Aboriginum cactus prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can cause sunburn on the plant.
  • Hardiness Zones: The cactus can tolerate temperatures as low as 25°F (-4°C) and is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Harrisia Aboriginum cactus is relatively disease and pest-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to the following:

  • Mealybugs: These pests appear as white, cottony masses on the plant. Use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to remove them.
  • Scale insects: These pests appear as small, brown bumps on the plant. Use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to remove them.
  • Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot and can cause the plant to wilt and die. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent rot.

Habitat

The Harrisia Aboriginum cactus is native to South America and can be found growing in the wild in countries such as Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. It prefers dry, arid conditions and can grow in a variety of soil types.

Question and Answer

Q: Can the fruit of the Harrisia Aboriginum cactus be eaten?
A: Yes, the fruit of the cactus is edible and has a sweet and juicy taste.

Q: How tall can the Harrisia Aboriginum cactus grow?
A: The cactus can grow up to 6 meters in height.

Q: What kind of soil does the Harrisia Aboriginum cactus prefer?
A: The cactus prefers well-draining soil, such as cactus mix or sandy soil.

Q: What are some common pests that can affect the Harrisia Aboriginum cactus?
A: Mealybugs and scale insects can affect the cactus. Overwatering can also lead to root rot.

Related Plants

  • Harrisia Pomanensis
  • Harrisia Martinii
  • Harrisia Bonplandii

References

  • “Harrisia Aboriginum.” World of Succulents. Accessed 21 October 2021. https://worldofsucculents.com/harrisia-aboriginum-aboriginal-queen-cactus/
  • “Harrisia Aboriginum.” Cactus Art Nursery. Accessed 21 October 2021. https://cactus-art.biz/schede/HARRISIA/Harrisia_aboriginum/Harrisia_aboriginum/Harrisia_aboriginum.htm
  • “Harrisia Aboriginum.” Desert-tropicals. Accessed 21 October 2021. http://www.desert-tropicals.com/Plants/Cactaceae/Harrisia_aboriginum.html

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