Tephrocactus alexanderi
Synonyms:
Opuntia alexanderi
Opuntia bruchii
Tephrocactus bruchii
Opuntia halophila
Tephrocactus halophilus
Opuntia Riojan
Tephrocactus riojanus
Tephrocactus microsphaericus
Opuntia alexanderi var. bruchii
Tephrocactus bruchi
Tephrocactus alexanderi var. bruchii
Habitat:
Native to north-western provinces of Argentina (La Rioja and Salta) grows rows from 500 to 800 meters above sea level in sand or stony soil. Is very drought tolerant.
This species grows and blooms in a very dry environment on rocky soil, where few other plants can survive.
Description:
Tephrocactus Alexanderi is a small cactus , the globular or ovoid stem is greyish-green co-lor which branches easily and creates bushes up to 50 cm in height.
In the areolas they have 4-12 spines long straight or slightly curved downwards, of 2-4 cm. length. The thorns ranging in color from white to dark grey.
In spring to mid-summer appear the pinkish-white large flowers.
Cultivation:
Cultivation is quite easy , needs full sun exposure and a hot dry climate. The winter safety temperature is 0° C
A potted plants will live and flower in your house house if given enough light; the perfect place is near a lighted window where will receive sun light most of the day.
We recommended water very moderately: once of 15-20 day in spring, every 8-10 day in summer and every 30 day in autumn. In winter you can suspend water. For soil we recom-mend a cactus succulent mix, well draining and rich in nutrients.
Propagation:
Propagation can be carried out using seeds or cuttings. If you choose cuttings, you can use little branches, but wait until their wound dries completely up before putting them in soil.
Curiosity:
The name of the genus Tephrocactus derives from Greek “Tephra” meaning “ash” which refers to the grayish color of epidermis. In Spanish T. Alexanderi is called “Bola de Indio”.
Official Web Site:
www.giromagi.com
Italian Blog:
www.giromagicactus.com
Tips:
Read our advice