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Description
Opuntia Polyacantha Var. Erinacea, also known as the snake cactus, is a species of cacti native to the western United States and Canada. It is a low-growing, perennial succulent with cylindrical stems that can reach up to 30 cm in length and 5 cm in diameter. The stems are covered in small, sharp spines that can cause irritation upon contact.The snake cactus is known for its beautiful yellow or orange flowers that bloom in the summer. These flowers are around 5 cm in diameter and are followed by edible, red fruit that can be harvested in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
The taxonomic classification of the Opuntia Polyacantha Var. Erinacea is as follows:
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Opuntia |
| Species | Polyacantha |
| Variety | Erinacea |
Appearance
The Opuntia Polyacantha Var. Erinacea has a distinctive appearance, characterized by its cylindrical stems and small, sharp spines. The stems are typically green or blue-green in color and can be up to 30 cm long and 5 cm in diameter. The spines are usually white or yellow and are arranged in clusters along the stem.
The snake cactus produces large, showy flowers that are around 5 cm in diameter. These flowers are typically yellow or orange in color and bloom in the summer. The fruit of the snake cactus is also noteworthy, as it is edible and can be harvested in the fall. The fruit is typically red in color and has a sweet, juicy flavor.
Care Guide
The Opuntia Polyacantha Var. Erinacea is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some specific conditions to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
Water
The snake cactus is drought-tolerant and can survive with minimal watering. However, it does require some moisture to thrive. Water your plant once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter months.
Fertilization
The snake cactus does not require regular fertilization, but you can give it a boost by fertilizing it with a cactus-specific fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil
The snake cactus prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a cactus or succulent-specific soil mix to ensure proper drainage.
Sunlight
The snake cactus requires full sunlight to thrive. Place it in a sunny window or outdoors in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
The snake cactus is hardy to USDA zones 4-9 and can withstand temperatures as low as -30°F (-34°C).
Common Pests & Diseases
The Opuntia Polyacantha Var. Erinacea is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
The snake cactus is also susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in soil that does not drain well. To avoid root rot, make sure your plant is planted in well-draining soil and is not overwatered.
Habitat
The Opuntia Polyacantha Var. Erinacea is native to the western United States and Canada, where it grows in dry, rocky soils. It is commonly found in desert and semi-desert regions, where it serves as an important food source for wildlife such as birds, rodents, and deer.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the fruit of the Opuntia Polyacantha Var. Erinacea be eaten?
A: Yes, the fruit of the snake cactus is edible and has a sweet, juicy flavor.
Q: How often should I water my snake cactus?
A: Water your snake cactus once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter months.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Opuntia Polyacantha Var. Erinacea?
A: The snake cactus is hardy to USDA zones 4-9 and can withstand temperatures as low as -30°F (-34°C).
Q: What pests are common on the snake cactus?
A: Mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects can be common pests on the snake cactus.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to the Opuntia Polyacantha Var. Erinacea:
- Opuntia Ficus-Indica
- Opuntia Microdasys
- Opuntia Imbricata
- Opuntia Aurea
References
- “Opuntia polyacantha var. erinacea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c964.
- “Opuntia polyacantha var. erinacea.” PlantFiles, www.garden.org/plants/view/1275/Opuntia-polyacantha-var-erinacea/.
- “Snake Cactus Care.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/snake-cactus/snake-cactus-care.htm.
