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Description
Stenocactus Multicostatus, also known as the Brain Cactus, is a small cactus that is native to Mexico. It belongs to the Cactaceae family and is a popular choice among cacti enthusiasts. It is a slow-growing plant that can reach a height of 6 inches and a width of 4 inches. Its unique shape, resembling a brain, makes it a fascinating addition to any plant collection.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Stenocactus |
| Species | Multicostatus |
Appearance
The Stenocactus Multicostatus has a unique shape, resembling a brain, which is why it is commonly called the Brain Cactus. It has a round, green body covered in spines. The stem is ribbed with deep grooves, and it can have up to 20 ribs. The spines are thin and short, measuring up to 1 inch in length. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that bloom in the summer months.
Care Guide
The Stenocactus Multicostatus is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize sparingly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a well-draining cactus mix.
- Sunlight: The Brain Cactus prefers bright, direct sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Stenocactus Multicostatus is generally a hardy plant and is not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, overwatering can cause root rot, and mealybugs and spider mites can infest the plant.
Habitat
The Stenocactus Multicostatus is native to Mexico and can be found growing in rocky, desert-like conditions. It prefers well-draining soil and bright sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Stenocactus Multicostatus?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: What is the optimal sunlight for the Brain Cactus?
A: The plant prefers bright, direct sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Stenocactus Multicostatus?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Q: What can cause root rot in the Brain Cactus?
A: Overwatering can cause root rot in the Stenocactus Multicostatus.
Related Plants
- Stenocactus coptonogonus
- Stenocactus crispatus
- Stenocactus multicostatus v. inermis
- Stenocactus phyllacanthus
References
- Cactus Art Nursery. (n.d.). Stenocactus multicostatus. Retrieved from http://www.cactus-art.biz/schede/STENOCACTUS/Stenocactus_multicostatus/Stenocactus_multicostatus/Stenocactus_multicostatus.htm
- Gardening Know How. (2021). Brain Cactus Info: Learn How To Grow Brain Cactus Houseplants. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/brain-cactus/growing-brain-cactus.htm
- World of Succulents. (n.d.). Stenocactus Multicostatus. Retrieved from https://worldofsucculents.com/stenocactus-multicostatus-brain-cactus/
