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Description
Micranthocereus Flaviflorus is a cactus species belonging to the Cactaceae family. It is native to Argentina, where it grows in rocky areas and on slopes at elevations of up to 3,200 meters. The plant has stems that are cylindrical, upright, and branching, with a diameter of up to 1.5 cm and a height of up to 30 cm. The stems are dark green in color and have 10-12 ribs that are slightly tuberculate. The areoles are slightly sunken and have 4-6 spines that are 1-2 cm long. The flowers are funnel-shaped and yellow, measuring up to 3 cm in length and 2.5 cm in diameter. The fruit is spherical, red, and up to 1.5 cm in diameter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Micranthocereus |
| Species | Flaviflorus |
Appearance
Micranthocereus Flaviflorus has cylindrical stems that are dark green in color and measure up to 30 cm in height and 1.5 cm in diameter. The stems have 10-12 ribs that are slightly tuberculate, and areoles that are slightly sunken and have 4-6 spines that are 1-2 cm long. The flowers are funnel-shaped and yellow, measuring up to 3 cm in length and 2.5 cm in diameter. The fruit is spherical, red, and up to 1.5 cm in diameter.
Care Guide
Micranthocereus Flaviflorus is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this cactus:
- Water: Water the plant sparingly, only when the soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a cactus fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the winter months.
- Soil: Plant the cactus in a well-draining soil mix that is specifically formulated for cacti and succulents.
- Sunlight: Place the plant in a bright, sunny location. It can tolerate partial shade, but too much shade can cause the stems to stretch and become weak.
- Hardiness Zones: Micranthocereus Flaviflorus can be grown indoors or outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Micranthocereus Flaviflorus is a hardy plant that is not usually affected by pests or diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:
- Mealybugs: These small, white insects can infest the plant and cause damage. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them.
- Root rot: Overwatering can cause the roots to rot. If you notice the stems becoming soft and mushy, stop watering immediately and allow the soil to dry out.
Habitat
Micranthocereus Flaviflorus is native to Argentina, where it grows in rocky areas and on slopes at elevations of up to 3,200 meters. It is well adapted to the arid and semi-arid climate of its habitat, and can tolerate high temperatures and drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Micranthocereus Flaviflorus be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Micranthocereus Flaviflorus can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a bright, sunny location.
Q: How often should I water my Micranthocereus Flaviflorus?
A: Water the plant sparingly, only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Q: What is the best soil mix for Micranthocereus Flaviflorus?
A: Plant the cactus in a well-draining soil mix that is specifically formulated for cacti and succulents.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Micranthocereus Flaviflorus?
A: Micranthocereus Flaviflorus can be grown indoors or outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Micranthocereus Diaspasis
- Micranthocereus Heterochromus
- Micranthocereus Polyanthemos
References
- “Micranthocereus Flaviflorus,” Cactus Art Nursery, accessed July 20, 2021, https://www.cactus-art.biz/schede/MICRANTHOCEREUS/Micranthocereus_flaviflorus/Micranthocereus_flaviflorus/Micranthocereus_flaviflorus.htm.
- “Micranthocereus Flaviflorus,” World of Succulents, accessed July 20, 2021, https://worldofsucculents.com/micranthocereus-flaviflorus-yellow-flower-cactus/.
