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Description
Lophophora Diffusa, also known as peyote, is a cactus plant that is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. It belongs to the family Cactaceae and is renowned for its medicinal properties. The cactus is small and globular, with a shallow taproot and a thick stem covered in small, button-like protrusions. Its flowers are white or pink and bloom in the spring and summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Lophophora |
Appearance
Lophophora Diffusa is a small cactus that grows up to 10 cm in height and 12 cm in diameter. Its stem is spherical, with a diameter that usually ranges between 3 and 6 cm. The stem is covered in small, button-like protrusions that are arranged in a spiral pattern. These protrusions are called “areoles” and are where the plant’s spines, flowers, and new growth emerge. The spines are small and hair-like, and they are used by the plant to protect itself from predators.
Care Guide
Lophophora Diffusa requires minimal care and attention. Here are some tips on how to take care of this unique cactus:- Water: The plant requires infrequent watering. Water the plant only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: The plant does not require much fertilization. Fertilize once a year with a cactus-specific fertilizer.- Soil: The plant requires well-draining, sandy soil. Use a cactus-specific soil mix or add sand and perlite to regular potting soil.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sunlight. Place it in a sunny, south-facing window or outdoors in a sunny spot.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9b to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lophophora Diffusa is susceptible to few pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to look out for:- Mealybugs: These insects can infest the plant and cause damage. Use an insecticidal soap to control the infestation.- Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Allow the soil to completely dry out before watering.
Habitat
Lophophora Diffusa is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. The plant grows in arid and semi-arid regions and thrives in rocky, sandy soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lophophora Diffusa illegal to possess?
A: In the United States, Lophophora Diffusa is a controlled substance and is illegal to possess without a permit.
Q: Can Lophophora Diffusa be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives adequate sunlight and is in well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I water my Lophophora Diffusa?
A: Water the plant only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Q: Can Lophophora Diffusa be propagated?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated through seeds or by taking stem cuttings.
Related Plants
– Lophophora Williamsii- Lophophora Jourdaniana- Lophophora Fricii- Lophophora Koehresii- Lophophora Diffusa Var. Koehresii
References
– Anderson, E. F. (1996). Peyote: The divine cactus. University of Arizona Press.- Lophophora Diffusa. (n.d.). Retrieved May 17, 2021, from https://www.cactus-aventures.com/lophophora-diffusa/- Lophophora Diffusa. (n.d.). Retrieved May 17, 2021, from https://worldofsucculents.com/lophophora-diffusa/
