About
Maihuenia poeppigii, the P�ppig maihuenia, is a slow-growing, mat-forming cactus to 15 cm with cylindrical, spiny, branched stems. Dark-green, almost needle-like, cylindrical leaves form at the end of each branch and may be crowned by a funnel-shaped, yellow flower in summer. A rewarding and distinctive cactus for a sunny, well-drained rock garden or alpine house.
About the genus
Maihuenia are mat-forming cacti from the Andean region of Argentina and Chile producing low-growing mats of short, segmented stems with small, rounded, persistent leaves. Funnel-shaped flowers in shades of yellow, white or orange appear from the stem tips.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeCactus Succulent
HabitMatforming
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesRock garden
Native toChile, Argentina
Care notes
CultivationGrows best in a well-drained soil in full sun; protect from winter rain. For further information see houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or stem cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free