Neobuxbaumia Mezcalaensis is a cactus species native to Mexico. It is a columnar cactus that can grow up to 8 meters in height and 60 cm in diameter. It is a rare cactus species that is found only in the state of Jalisco in Mexico. It is known for its ornamental value and can be grown in gardens, patios, and indoors.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Neobuxbaumia |
| Species | Mezcalaensis |
Appearance
Neobuxbaumia Mezcalaensis is a tall columnar cactus that can grow up to 8 meters in height and 60 cm in diameter. Its stem is green and ribbed, with up to 35 ribs. The areoles on the stem are spaced about 3 cm apart and have yellow or brown spines that can grow up to 5 cm in length.
The flowers of Neobuxbaumia Mezcalaensis are pink and appear in the summer. They are funnel-shaped and can grow up to 7 cm in length. The fruit is a red, fleshy berry that contains small black seeds.
Care Guide
Neobuxbaumia Mezcalaensis is a low-maintenance cactus that can grow well in a variety of conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the cactus sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the cactus once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is specifically designed for cacti and succulents.
- Sunlight: Place the cactus in a sunny location where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Neobuxbaumia Mezcalaensis can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Neobuxbaumia Mezcalaensis is vulnerable to a few common pests and diseases, including:
- Scale insects: These pests look like small bumps on the stem and leaves of the cactus. They can be removed with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
- Root rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be fatal. To prevent root rot, water the cactus sparingly and ensure that the soil is well-draining.
- Mealybugs: These pests look like small white cotton balls and can be removed with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Habitat
Neobuxbaumia Mezcalaensis is native to the state of Jalisco in Mexico. It grows in rocky, dry areas at elevations of 1,000-1,500 meters above sea level. It is a rare cactus species that is threatened by habitat loss due to human activity.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Neobuxbaumia Mezcalaensis?
A: Water the cactus sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Neobuxbaumia Mezcalaensis?
A: Neobuxbaumia Mezcalaensis can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 10-12.Q: What are some common pests that affect Neobuxbaumia Mezcalaensis?
A: Scale insects, mealybugs, and root rot can affect Neobuxbaumia Mezcalaensis.Q: Where is Neobuxbaumia Mezcalaensis native to?
A: Neobuxbaumia Mezcalaensis is native to the state of Jalisco in Mexico.
Related Plants
- Neobuxbaumia macrocephala
- Neobuxbaumia mezcalaensis
- Neobuxbaumia polylopha
- Neobuxbaumia tetetzo
References
- Anderson, E. F. (2001). The Cactus Family. Timber Press.
- Fitz Maurice, W. A., Fitz Maurice, B., & Hernández, H. M. (2013). The genus Neobuxbaumia Backeb. (Cactaceae). Haseltonia, 18, 14-29.
- Goettsch, B., Hilton-Taylor, C., Cruz-Piñón, G., Duffy, J. P., Frances, A., Hernández, H. M., … & Smith, M. (2013). High proportion of cactus species threatened with extinction. Nature Plants, 3(12), 1-3.
