Contents
Description
Stetsonia Coryne is a cactus that belongs to the Cactaceae family. It is native to South America, specifically in the regions of Bolivia, Argentina, and Paraguay. It is also known as the Argentine Toothpick Cactus and it can grow up to 15 feet tall in the wild. It has a columnar shape with a thick trunk that can reach up to 15 inches in diameter. The cactus has numerous spines that grow up to 3 inches long and are yellow in color. During the blooming season, which occurs in late spring and early summer, it produces large white flowers that can reach up to 4 inches in diameter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Stetsonia |
Appearance
Stetsonia Coryne has a distinct columnar shape with a thick trunk that can grow up to 15 feet tall in the wild. The trunk can reach up to 15 inches in diameter and is covered with numerous yellow spines that grow up to 3 inches long. The cactus has a greenish-gray color and has a waxy texture. During the blooming season, it produces large white flowers that can reach up to 4 inches in diameter.
Care Guide
Stetsonia Coryne is a relatively easy cactus to care for, but it does require specific conditions to thrive. Here are some care guidelines:
- Water: Water the cactus deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. During the winter months, reduce watering to once a month.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the cactus with a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant the cactus in well-draining soil, such as cactus soil, mixed with sand or perlite.
- Sunlight: Place the cactus in full sun to partial shade. It can withstand high temperatures but needs protection from frost.
- Hardiness Zones: Stetsonia Coryne can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Stetsonia Coryne is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by the following:
- Mealybugs: These pests can infest the cactus and cause damage by feeding on its sap. Use neem oil or rubbing alcohol to get rid of them.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the cactus. Use well-draining soil and reduce watering to prevent this.
Habitat
Stetsonia Coryne is native to South America, specifically in the regions of Bolivia, Argentina, and Paraguay. It grows in rocky and sandy soils in areas with low rainfall and high temperatures. It is also found in areas with occasional flooding.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Stetsonia Coryne?
A: Water the cactus deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. During the winter months, reduce watering to once a month.
Q: Can Stetsonia Coryne tolerate frost?
A: No, Stetsonia Coryne needs protection from frost. It can withstand high temperatures but is not frost-tolerant.
Q: What is the blooming season for Stetsonia Coryne?
A: The blooming season for Stetsonia Coryne occurs in late spring and early summer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Stetsonia Coryne?
A: Stetsonia Coryne can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Saguaro Cactus
- Golden Barrel Cactus
- Organ Pipe Cactus
References
- “Stetsonia Coryne.” World of Succulents, https://worldofsucculents.com/stetsonia-coryne-argentine-toothpick-cactus/. Accessed 7 Oct. 2021.
- “Stetsonia Coryne.” Cactus Art Nursery, https://cactus-art.biz/schede/STETSONIA/Stetsonia_coryne/Stetsonia_coryne/Stetsonia_coryne.htm. Accessed 7 Oct. 2021.
