Contents
Description
Peniocereus Striatus, also known as the “Hedgehog Cactus,” is a cactus species that belongs to the Cactaceae family. It is native to Mexico and is commonly found in the Chihuahuan Desert. The cactus has multiple, slender stems that can grow up to 4 feet tall. The stems have a greenish-gray color, and the cactus produces white, fragrant flowers that bloom at night.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Peniocereus |
Appearance
Peniocereus Striatus has multiple, slender stems that can grow up to 4 feet tall. The stems have a greenish-gray color and are covered with small bumps that resemble hedgehog spines. The cactus produces white, fragrant flowers that bloom at night and measure up to 5 inches in diameter. The flowers have a funnel shape and are surrounded by a ring of green sepals.
Care Guide
To care for Peniocereus Striatus, it is important to provide it with the right amount of water, fertilizer, soil, sunlight, and placement. Water: Water the cactus every 2-3 weeks during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter. Make sure the soil is dry before watering again.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.Hardiness Zones: Peniocereus Striatus is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Peniocereus Striatus is not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. To prevent these pests, make sure to keep the cactus clean and free of debris. If pests do appear, use a mild insecticidal soap to treat the affected areas.
Habitat
Peniocereus Striatus is native to Mexico and is commonly found in the Chihuahuan Desert. The cactus prefers well-draining soil and can grow in rocky, sandy, or gravelly areas. It is adapted to withstand hot temperatures and dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Peniocereus Striatus?
A: Water the cactus every 2-3 weeks during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter. Make sure the soil is dry before watering again.Q: What kind of soil should I use for Peniocereus Striatus?
A: Use a well-draining soil mix that is specifically designed for cacti and succulents.Q: What kind of pests can affect Peniocereus Striatus?
A: Peniocereus Striatus can be affected by mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Peniocereus Striatus?
A: Peniocereus Striatus is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
Other cactus species in the Peniocereus genus include:
- Peniocereus Greggii
- Peniocereus Serpentinus
- Peniocereus Vazquezii
References
- “Peniocereus Striatus.” CactiGuide.com, cactiguide.com/cactus/?genus=peniocereus&species=striatus.
- “Peniocereus Striatus.” Dave’s Garden, davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/189228/.
- “Peniocereus Striatus.” World of Succulents, worldofsucculents.com/peniocereus-striatus-hedgehog-cactus/.
