About
A cactus forming a cluster of squat, globose stems with red-brown central spines. Pink, red or orange-red funnel-shaped flowers appear in the summer.
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, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeCactus Succulent, Conservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesHouseplants, Patio and container plants
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. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for further advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed at 19-24°C (66-75°F) in spring or summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to mealybugs
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to root rots