Armatocereus Mataranus: Care And Propagation Guide
Last Updated on July 8, 2023
If you’re looking for an unusual, yet easy-to-care-for cactus, the Armatocereus mataranus is a great option. Also known as the Peruvian apple cactus, this fast-growing plant is native to Peru and Bolivia. It’s characterized by its round, greenish-yellow fruits that resemble apples (hence its common name).
While the fruits are edible, they’re not particularly tasty.
If you are looking for an unusual and beautiful cactus to add to your collection, you may want to consider the Armatocereus mataranus. This Peruvian native is not only stunning, but it is also relatively easy to care for. Here is what you need to know about Armatocereus mataranus care and propagation.
Armatocereus mataranus is a slow-growing cactus that can eventually reach up to 6 feet in height. It has long, thin stems that are covered in spines. The flowers of this cactus are white with purple streaks and they bloom in the summertime.
When it comes to Armatocereus mataranus care, the most important thing is to provide plenty of bright light. This cactus does best in full sun, but it can also tolerate some partial shade. Water your cactus regularly during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
During the winter months, reduce watering considerably. Your cactus will also appreciate a good dose of fertilizer once or twice a year.
If you would like to propagate your Armatocereus mataranus, doing so from stem cuttings is the best method.
Allow the cuttings to callous over for a few days before potting them up in well-draining cactus mix. Keep them warm and moist until they start to root, which usually takes place within 4-6 weeks.
Credit: succulentalley.com
What is the Best Way to Care for an Armatocereus Mataranus
The genus Armatocereus (family Cactaceae) comprises about 30 species of cactus, native to South America. They are typically small to medium-sized plants, with cylindrical stems and spines arranged in spirals. The flowers are large and showy, and range in colour from white to pink or purple.
Armatocereus mataranus is a relatively small species, growing to around 20 cm in height. It has thin, green stems with reddish-brown spines. The flowers are white or pale pink, and appear in summer.
This plant is easy to grow indoors, provided that it receives enough light. It prefers a position in full sun, but will tolerate some shade. During the active growth period (spring and summer), water freely and allow the soil to dry out between watering.
In winter, reduce watering frequency but do not allow the plant to become completely dry; a little moisture is still required at this time. fertilise monthly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertiliser diluted by half.
Armatocereus mataranus is not particularly susceptible to pests or diseases, although mealybugs may occasionally be found on the stems or leaves.
These can be removed with cotton wool soaked in rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol).
Austrocactus Philippii
If you’re looking for a unique and interesting cactus to add to your collection, you may want to consider Austrocactus philippii. This South American native is also known as the “silver torch cactus” due to its silvery-blue coloration. It’s a relatively fast grower and can reach up to 6 feet tall in maturity.
Austrocactus philippii is a member of the Cactaceae family and is closely related to other popular cacti, such as Echinopsis and Lobivia. It flowers readily and produces beautiful yellow blooms that contrast nicely with its blue body. The flowers are followed by small, edible fruits that taste similar to strawberries.
This cactus is relatively easy to care for and does well in most indoor environments. It prefers bright light but can tolerate some direct sun exposure. Water when the soil has dried out completely and fertilize during the growing season (spring through summer).
Be sure to use a well-draining potting mix specifically designed for cacti and succulents.
If you’re looking for an unusual and eye-catching cactus, Austrocactus philippii is definitely worth considering!
Lilliput Cactus
Lilliput cactus (Echinopsis lilliputiana) is a small, round cactus that originates from Bolivia. It’s named after the fictional country in Jonathan Swift’s “Gulliver’s Travels” because of its miniature size. The plant typically grows to be only about 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter, but can sometimes reach up to 8 inches (20 cm).
Lilliput cacti are green or bluish-green in color and have around 20 radial spines. They bloom in the springtime, producing flowers that are white, pink, or red.
Lilliput cacti are not difficult to care for and make excellent houseplants.
They prefer bright light but can tolerate some direct sun. During the summer months, they should be watered about once a week; during the winter months, they can go several weeks without water. These plants don’t need much fertilizer; once a month is plenty.
Over-fertilizing can actually damage them. Lilliput cacti are prone to mealybugs and spider mites, so it’s important to check them regularly for pests.
Austrocactus Patagonicus
Austrocactus patagonicus is a cactus that is native to Patagonia in South America. It is a member of the Cactaceae family and is also known as the Chilean cactus or the Andean cactus. The plant grows to a height of around 2-3 meters and has a stout, columnar stem with 12-20 ribs.
The flowers are yellow or orange in color and bloom in summer. The fruits are green and fleshy, and contain black seeds.
This cactus has been used for centuries by the indigenous people of Patagonia for various purposes such as food, medicine, and fuel.
The plant is drought tolerant and can grow in very poor soils. It is an important source of food for livestock during dry periods. Austrocactus patagonicus contains high levels of vitamin C, making it valuable as a dietary supplement.
In addition, extracts from the plant have shown antimicrobial activity against bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus .
The Austrocactus patagonicus has great potential as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers and unusual shape. It is widely cultivated in gardens in Europe and North America.
Is the Care and Propagation Process Similar for Creeping Cereus and Armatocereus Mataranus?
The care and propagation guidelines for creeping cereus and Armatocereus mataranus differ slightly. While both plants require well-draining soil and indirect sunlight, creeping cereus prefers warmer temperatures while Armatocereus mataranus can withstand cooler climates. Additionally, creeping cereus propagates easily through stem cuttings, while Armatocereus mataranus prefers seed propagation.
Astrophytum Identification
Astrophytum (Asteria) is a genus of cacti that includes about 20 species. The name comes from the Greek words for “star” and “plant”. These cacti are native to Mexico and the southwestern United States.
The most common Astrophytum species is Astrophytum myriostigma, which is also known as the star cactus or bishop’s cap cactus. This plant has a green body with white stripes or spots. It typically grows to about 12 inches (30 cm) tall.
Other popular Astrophytum species include:
Astrophytum asterias – this plant has a green body with white stripes or spots. It typically grows to about 6 inches (15 cm) tall.
Astrophytum capricorne – this plant has a blue-green body with no stripes or spots. It typically grows to about 18 inches (45 cm) tall.
Astrophytum ornatum – this plant has a yellow-green body with no stripes or spots.
It typically grows to about 24 inches (60 cm) tall.
Conclusion
This cactus is a native of Bolivia and is commonly known as the Mataranka Pink Coral Cactus. It grows in hot, dry climates and has long, thin, spiraling stems that are covered in sharp spines. The flowers are pink or white and bloom in the summer.
The fruit is edible and tastes like a cross between a grapefruit and an orange.
This cactus is relatively easy to care for and can be propagated from seed or cuttings. It does best in full sun but will tolerate some shade.
It needs well-draining soil and should be watered only when the soil is dry. In winter, it will need less water. If you live in a cold climate, it is best to grow this cactus indoors or in a greenhouse.
