About
Cylindropuntia imbricata 'Krätschmer' is a resilient, shrubby cactus characterized by its thick, cylindrical green stems, which are densely covered in sharp, barbed spines. In late spring to early summer, it produces flowers that resemble daisies, displaying shades of magenta to purple. These blooms are succeeded by cone-shaped fruits that mature to a yellow hue. This variety is well-suited to withstand cold British winters, as long as it is not exposed to excessive moisture.
Growing conditions
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
- Plant type
- Cactus Succulent
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 2.5-4 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 10-20 years
- Suggested uses
- Houseplants, Patio and container plants
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Under glass grow in standard cactus compost in full light or bright filtered light. From early spring to mid-autumn, water freely and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser 3-4 times; keep dry at other times. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation
- Pruning
- No pruning required
- Propagation
- Propagate by removing and rooting stem segments
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to scale insects and mealybugs
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free