About
In spring it produces funnel-shaped white flowers with a pink stripe on each petal. A slow-growing, solitary cactus forming a dome to 8cm tall. The grey-green stem bears fat, 5 or 6-angled tubercles and stiff radial spines.
About the genus
Thelocactus are cacti with ribbed, spiny, globose or shortly cylindrical stems and large funnel-shaped flowers
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
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesHouseplants, Sub-tropical
Native toMexico
Care notes
CultivationGrow in standard cactus compost in full light with low humidity. When in growth, water moderately and apply a low-nitrogen fertiliser monthly; keep dry in winter. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for further information
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to mealybugs
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to stem and root rots if overwatered