About
A cactus forming a cluster of squat, globose stems to 15cm tall, the ribs with red-brown central spines to 4.5cm and shorter radials; orange-red funnel-shaped flowers to 9cm long.
About the genus
Matucana are cacti with solitary or clustered, ribbed, spiny stems that may be globose or cylindrical, and have funnel-shaped flowers in a range of colours
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Cactus Succulent, Houseplants
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Native toPeru
Care notes
CultivationGrow under glass in standard cactus compost in full light with low humidity. Water moderately from mid spring to early autumn, applying a dilute liquid fertiliser monthly. Keep dry at other times
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed at 19-24°C (66-75°F) in spring or summer
Pest resistanceMealybugs may be a problem
Disease resistanceRelatively disease resistant