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Description
Neobuxbaumia Tetetzo, also known as the Tetetzo Giant Cactus, is a species of cactus native to Central Mexico. It belongs to the Cactaceae family and is known for its tall and columnar shape. It can grow up to 15 meters in height and 80 centimeters in diameter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Neobuxbaumia |
Appearance
Neobuxbaumia Tetetzo has a tall and columnar shape, which can grow up to 15 meters in height and 80 centimeters in diameter. It has a blue-green color and a smooth surface. The cactus has 19-25 ribs, and it bears areoles with spines that are about 4 centimeters long. The spines are yellowish-brown and grow in clusters. During the summer, the cactus produces large, white flowers that bloom at night and last for about three days.
Care Guide
To grow Neobuxbaumia Tetetzo, you should keep in mind the following care tips:
- Water: Water the cactus deeply but infrequently during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the cactus with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant the cactus in well-draining soil, preferably a mixture of sand and loam.
- Sunlight: Place the cactus in full sun or partial shade, depending on the climate.
- Hardiness Zones: The cactus can grow in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Neobuxbaumia Tetetzo is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Some common pests that can attack the cactus are spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Diseases that can affect the cactus include root rot, stem rot, and bacterial soft rot. To prevent these problems, make sure to keep the cactus clean, well-watered, and well-fertilized, and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Neobuxbaumia Tetetzo is native to Central Mexico, where it grows in arid regions and rocky slopes. It is commonly found in the states of Hidalgo, Queretaro, and San Luis Potosi. The cactus is adapted to hot and dry climates and can tolerate temperatures as low as -4°C.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Neobuxbaumia Tetetzo easy to care for?
A: Yes, Neobuxbaumia Tetetzo is relatively easy to care for. As long as you provide it with well-draining soil, plenty of sunlight, and moderate water and fertilizer, the cactus should thrive.
Q: How long does it take for Neobuxbaumia Tetetzo to bloom?
A: Neobuxbaumia Tetetzo typically blooms during the summer, and the flowers last for about three days.
Q: Can Neobuxbaumia Tetetzo grow indoors?
A: It is not recommended to grow Neobuxbaumia Tetetzo indoors, as the cactus requires plenty of sunlight and space to grow.
Q: How do you propagate Neobuxbaumia Tetetzo?
A: Neobuxbaumia Tetetzo can be propagated by seed or by stem cuttings. To propagate by stem cuttings, take a cutting from the top of the cactus and let it dry for a few days. Then, plant the cutting in well-draining soil and water lightly.
Related Plants
- Neobuxbaumia Macrocephala
- Neobuxbaumia Polylopha
- Neobuxbaumia Tetetzo Cristata
- Cephalocereus Senilis
References
- https://worldofsucculents.com/neobuxbaumia-tetetzo-tetetzo-giant-cactus/
- https://www.cactus-art.biz/schede/NEOBUXTET/Neobuxbaumia_tetetzo/Neobuxbaumia_tetetzo/Neobuxbaumia_tetetzo.htm
- https://cactiguide.com/cactus/?genus=Neobuxbaumia&species=tetetzo
