Contents
Description
Pygmaeocereus Bieblii is a species of cactus plant that is native to South America. It is commonly known as the “Golden Toothpick Cactus” due to its yellow spines that resemble toothpicks. This cactus plant is slow-growing and can reach a height of up to 15 centimeters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Pygmaeocereus |
Appearance
The Pygmaeocereus Bieblii has a cylindrical shape and grows upward with several branches. It has a green color with yellow spines that can grow up to 2.5 centimeters long. The flowers of this cactus plant are small and white in color, blooming in the summer months.
Care Guide
Watering the Pygmaeocereus Bieblii should be done moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between each watering. Fertilization can be done once a month with a cactus-specific fertilizer. The soil should be well-draining and sandy. This cactus plant prefers full sunlight and can grow in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Pygmaeocereus Bieblii is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause shriveling.
Habitat
Pygmaeocereus Bieblii is native to the Andes region of South America, specifically in Peru and Bolivia. It grows in rocky and dry areas at an altitude of up to 3,000 meters above sea level.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pygmaeocereus Bieblii a good indoor plant?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors as long as it receives enough sunlight.
Q: How often should I water Pygmaeocereus Bieblii?
A: Watering should be done moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between each watering.
Q: Can Pygmaeocereus Bieblii tolerate cold temperatures?
A: No, it prefers warmer temperatures and can only tolerate cold temperatures down to 20°F (-6°C).
Q: How long does it take for Pygmaeocereus Bieblii to bloom?
A: It blooms in the summer months and can take up to 5 years to bloom from seed.
Related Plants
- Pygmaeocereus Byrdii
- Pygmaeocereus Marcucci
- Pygmaeocereus Fulviceps
References
- “Pygmaeocereus bieblii.” Cactus Art Nursery. Accessed 6 October 2021. https://cactus-art.biz/schede/PYGMAEOCEREUS/Pygmaeocereus_bieblii/Pygmaeocereus_bieblii/Pygmaeocereus_bieblii.htm
- “Pygmaeocereus bieblii.” World of Succulents. Accessed 6 October 2021. https://worldofsucculents.com/pygmaeocereus-bieblii-golden-toothpick-cactus/
- “Pygmaeocereus bieblii.” Desert Tropicals. Accessed 6 October 2021. http://www.desert-tropicals.com/Plants/Cactaceae/Pygmaeocereus_bieblii.html
