Synonyms:

The classification of Notocactus scopa var. albispinus is uncertain. It is considered a synonym of Parodia scopa subs. succinea f. albiseta, that is in turn a synonym of Parodia scopa. Other synonyms are:

Cactus scopa
Cereus scopa
Echinocactus scopa
Echinocactus scopa f. albicans
Echinocactus scopa f. candidus
Echinocactus scopa var. albicans
Echinocactus scopa var. candidus
Echinopsis scopa
Echinopsis scopa var. candida-cristata
Malacocarpus scopa
Notocactus glomeratus
Notocactus rudibuenekeri
Notocactus rudibuenekeri subsp. glomeratus
Notocactus rudibuenekeri var. glomeratus
Notocactus scopa
Notocactus scopa
Notocactus scopa f. albicans
Notocactus scopa f. candidus
Notocactus scopa f. cobrensis
Notocactus scopa f. daenikerianus
Notocactus scopa f. erythrinus
Notocactus scopa f. glauserianus
Notocactus scopa f. machadoensis
Notocactus scopa f. marchesii
Notocactus scopa f. succineus
Notocactus scopa f. xicoi
Notocactus scopa f. xiphacanthus
Notocactus scopa subsp. marchesii
Notocactus scopa subsp. succineus
Notocactus scopa var. albicans
Notocactus scopa var. cobrensis
Notocactus scopa var. daenikerianus
Notocactus scopa var. glauserianus
Notocactus scopa var. machadoensis
Notocactus scopa var. marchesii
Notocactus scopa var. murielii
Notocactus scopa var. xicoi
Notocactus scopa var. xiphacanthus
Notocactus soldtianus
Notocactus succineus
Parodia rudibuenekeri
Parodia rudibuenekeri subsp. glomerata
Parodia scopa subsp. marchesii
Parodia scopa subsp. scopa
Parodia scopa subsp. succinea
Parodia succinea
Peronocactus rudibuenekeri
Peronocactus rudibuenekeri subsp. glomeratus
Peronocactus scopa
Peronocactus scopa subsp. marchesii
Peronocactus scopa subsp. succineus

Habitat:

Notocactus scopa var. albispinus is a nursery cultivar and thus doesn’t exist in nature.

Description:

Notocactus scopa var. albispinus, also known as Parodia scopa subs. succinea f. albiseta or Notocactus succineus var. albispinus, is a cultivated strain that showcases distinctive characteristics. Unlike the typical Parodia scopa subspecies succinea, this variety features spines that are pure white instead of dark yellow. Its flowers are remarkably vibrant and glossy yellow. This perennial stem succulent originates from a basal branching structure. With age, Notocactus scopa var. albispinus forms large clumps. The stem starts off as dark green and globular, but as it matures, it takes on a columnar to clavate shape, with a depressed apex. Its diameter ranges from 2.5 to 7 cm. The plant displays 18 to 24 ribs, although sometimes it can have even more, reaching up to 28 or beyond. These ribs are low and obtuse, finely notched into small warts tipped with areoles. The areoles, covered in white woolly hairs, may exhibit a slight spiral pattern. Notocactus scopa var. albispinus possesses 4 to 12 central spines that are medium in length and needle-like. These central spines are thicker and sturdier than the (12-)15-30(-40) radial spines, which are shorter and have a bristle-like appearance. The radial spines are whitish and spread around the plant, measuring 3-10 mm in length. During the blooming season, typically in June and July, this variety produces a cluster of satiny, bright yellow flowers. These flowers emerge in the upper part of the stem, forming a ring-like arrangement. They measure approximately 3-3.6 cm in length and 3-4 cm in diameter. The inner perianth segments are spatulate and overlap in two series. They are relatively wide for their length and may exhibit some toothed features on the upper part. The pistil contains about 10 bright crimson stigma lobes, which are rayed in appearance. The tube is short, and the ovary scales are woolly and adorned with brown bristles. The fruits of Notocactus scopa var. albispinus are globose, with a diameter of around 7 mm. They open when mature and contain numerous seeds. The seeds themselves are dull black and tuberculate, measuring 0.6-0.9 mm in length and 0.5-1 mm in width.

Cultivation:

Notocactus scopa var. albispinus is an easily cultivated plant that thrives under the right conditions. It prefers a potting mix that is mineral-based and slightly acidic to neutral, enriched with ample amounts of grit and nutrients during the summer season. While it enjoys a warm and bright environment, it is important to avoid exposing it to intense, scorching sunlight during the peak summer months. Partial shade is ideal for this plant’s growth.

During the growing season, Notocactus scopa var. albispinus can tolerate generous watering. However, caution should be exercised with potted specimens during the winter months, as they are sensitive to excessive moisture and can easily succumb to root rot if the soil remains wet and cold. It is common for this plant to experience root loss during the winter period.

For optimal watering, it is recommended to use rainwater whenever possible. During winter, it is advisable to provide a bright and warm greenhouse environment, maintaining temperatures of at least 8-10°C while keeping the substrate relatively dry. This is crucial to prevent root loss and rot, which can occur if the soil is excessively wet and cold. Remarkably, Notocactus scopa var. albispinus has shown resilience and can tolerate short periods of temperatures as low as -5°C.

While cultivating this plant, it is important to monitor for the presence of spider mites, as they can pose a threat. Regular checks and appropriate measures should be taken to prevent and address any infestations that may occur. By maintaining a vigilant eye, one can ensure the health and vitality of Notocactus scopa var. albispinus throughout its growth journey.

Propagation:

Notocactus scopa var. albispinus can be propagated through various techniques, including seeds, cuttings, or root suckers if they are available. While each method offers its own advantages, raising this plant from seeds is a relatively straightforward process.To propagate Notocactus scopa var. albispinus from seeds, begin by collecting mature seeds from the plant. These seeds can be sown in a well-draining potting mix, ensuring they are lightly covered with a thin layer of soil. Maintaining a consistently moist environment and providing ample light will encourage germination. With patience and proper care, the seeds will sprout, leading to the development of new plants.Alternatively, cuttings can be taken from healthy Notocactus scopa var. albispinus specimens. Using a clean, sharp knife, carefully remove a section of the stem or a specific segment. Allow the cutting to dry and callus for a few days before placing it in a well-draining substrate. Keep the cutting slightly moist and provide sufficient light to promote root development. Over time, roots will form, and the cutting will grow into an independent plant. Suckers are the easiest way to propagate the plant. It is sufficient to take one of them off and replant it in another pot with some roots and soil still on the plant.

Curiosity:

The genus name “Notocactus” is derived from the combination of two Greek words. “Noto” comes from “notos,” meaning “south,” while “cactus” refers to the family of cacti. The name “Notocactus” can be interpreted as “southern cactus” or “cactus from the south.” This name likely reflects the geographical distribution of many species within the genus, which are native to southern regions of South America. The specific epithet “scopa” is derived from the Latin word for “broom” or “sweeping.” It is believed to refer to the distinctive appearance of the plant, with its numerous radial spines that may resemble the bristles of a broom or brush. The term “scopa” also suggests the plant’s characteristic spines that give it a somewhat fluffy or brush-like appearance.

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