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Description
Harrisia Fragrans, commonly known as the Sweet-Scented Cactus, is a species of cactus that belongs to the Cactaceae family. This plant is native to South America, specifically in Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay. The Sweet-Scented Cactus is a popular ornamental plant due to its fragrant flowers and easy-to-care-for nature.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Harrisia |
Appearance
The Sweet-Scented Cactus is a columnar cactus that can grow up to 30 feet in height in its natural habitat. In cultivation, it usually grows up to 6 feet tall. The stems of the cactus are green and have 10 to 12 ribs with areoles that have spines. The flowers of the Sweet-Scented Cactus are white and fragrant, blooming from late spring to early summer. The plant produces fruit that is edible but not commonly eaten.
Care Guide
The Sweet-Scented Cactus is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal attention. Here’s a guide to taking care of this plant:
Water
The Sweet-Scented Cactus requires infrequent watering. Water the plant deeply about once a month during its growing season (spring to fall) and reduce the watering frequency during the winter season. Ensure that the soil dries out between waterings to prevent root rot.
Fertilization
The Sweet-Scented Cactus does not require frequent fertilization. Fertilize the plant once a month during its growing season using a balanced fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the winter season.
Soil
The Sweet-Scented Cactus requires well-draining soil. Use a cactus mix or mix sand or perlite into regular potting soil to improve drainage.
Sunlight
The Sweet-Scented Cactus requires bright, indirect sunlight. Place the plant near a window that receives sunlight for at least 6 hours a day.
Hardiness Zones
The Sweet-Scented Cactus can grow in hardiness zones 9b to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Sweet-Scented Cactus is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Inspect the plant regularly and treat any infestations with an insecticide or by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth.
Habitat
The Sweet-Scented Cactus is native to South America, specifically in Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay. It grows in hot and dry climates and can be found in grasslands, savannas, and rocky areas. The plant is also cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and indoors.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Sweet-Scented Cactus be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the Sweet-Scented Cactus can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect sunlight and well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I water my Sweet-Scented Cactus?
A: Water the plant deeply about once a month during its growing season (spring to fall) and reduce the watering frequency during the winter season.
Q: Is the fruit of the Sweet-Scented Cactus edible?
A: Yes, the fruit of the Sweet-Scented Cactus is edible but not commonly eaten.
Q: What should I do if my Sweet-Scented Cactus has mealybugs?
A: Treat any infestations with an insecticide or by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth.
Related Plants
- Harrisia Adscendens
- Harrisia Bonplandii
- Harrisia Martinii
- Harrisia Pomanensis
References
- Wikipedia contributors. (2021, June 3). Harrisia fragrans. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 22:52, June 14, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Harrisia_fragrans&oldid=1026655421
- Debra Lee Baldwin. (2017, July 27). Sweet-Scented Cactus: Your Easy-Care, Fragrant Beauty. In Gardening Know How. Retrieved 23:00, June 14, 2021, from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/sweet-scented-cactus/sweet-scented-cactus.htm
