Overview
Stenocactus coptonogonus is a clump forming cactus succulent in the genus Stenocactus, part of the Cactaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Stenocactus coptonogonus grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam and sand soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H2. Suggested uses include houseplants and conservatory and greenhouse.
About
Stenocactus coptonogonus is a clump-forming cultivar of the Stenocactus genus, a group of small, typically globular cacti native to Mexico. This evergreen plant thrives in full sun and requires a sheltered aspect, such as south- or west-facing positions. It prefers well-drained loam or sandy soils across a range of pH levels, from acid to alkaline. In summer, it produces tubular flowers, adding seasonal interest. Suitable for cultivation in gritty soil, it is ideal for houseplants or in conservatories and greenhouses, with a UK hardiness rating of H2.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Stenocactus
- 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
- H2
Plant details
Stenocactus coptonogonus size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Cactus Succulent, Houseplants
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Houseplants, Conservatory and greenhouse
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Stenocactus coptonogonus
- Propagation
- Seed
- Pest resistance
- Mealybugs
- Disease resistance
- Root and stem rots
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Stenocactus coptonogonus?
Stenocactus coptonogonus prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Stenocactus coptonogonus need?
Stenocactus coptonogonus grows best in loam and sand soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Stenocactus coptonogonus hardy in the UK?
Stenocactus coptonogonus has an RHS hardiness rating of H2, meaning it is tender, tolerating 1–5°C, and needs frost-free protection over winter.
How do I propagate Stenocactus coptonogonus?
Seed.
From the Fenn Plants journal
- Notes on DaffodilsWhen to plant daffodil bulbs in the UK, how deep, how to naturalise them in grass, why daffodils stop flowering (“blindness”), and why you should never mix cut daffodils with other flowers.
- Keeping Your NerveHow to garden through a heatwave — the best time to water, why deep soaks beat daily sprinkles, caring for pots and vulnerable plants, and why you can let the lawn go brown.
- Made to LastHow to clean, store and protect garden pots and planters — the frost-proof vs frost-resistant difference, winter care for terracotta and ceramic, and how to reuse a broken pot.