About
A cactus to 40cm tall, producing fragile, grey-green, cylindrical stems from a tuberous rootstock. eye-catching, pale yellow, sometimes copper-tinged flowers are produced in early summer. Whitish spines arise from grey areoles and lie flat against the stems.
About the genus
Pterocactus is a genus of plants encompassing species that may be herbaceous, shrubby, or woody. They are grown for their ornamental flowers, foliage, or fruit, and vary in hardiness and cultural requirements
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, Houseplants
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesHouseplants
Native toArgentina
Care notes
CultivationUnder glass, grow in standard cactus compost with full light. From spring to late summer, water moderately and apply a low-nitrogen fertiliser every 4 or 5 weeks; keep almost dry at all other times. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or stem cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to mealybugs
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to root and stem rots if overwatered