Care of the cactus Maihueniopsis glomerata or Copana cactus |
The genus Maihueniopsis, family Cactaceae, comprises 13 species of small cactus native to Argentina, Chile and Bolivia. Some species are: Maihueniopsis glomerata, Maihueniopsis subterranea, Maihueniopsis nigrispina, Maihueniopsis ovata. Common name: Copana cactus. They are branched cacti with a creeping bearing with 3 cm (1.18") long ovoid segments. In the round areolas they have yellowish glochids and 1-2 main spines long (up to 5 cm/1.96") and erect; they have 2 short white secondary spines. The flowers are light yellow. They produce globose reddish or greenish fruits. Copana cactus is used in pots for balconies and terraces or as an indoor plant; in this case it should be located next to a window with good ventilation. Maihueniopsis glomerata requires full sun exposure and a winter temperature above 3 ºC (37.4 ºF). The soil can be a commercial substrate for cacti or a mixture, in the same proportions, of heather soil, blond peat, black peat and siliceous sand. Always water moderately, waiting until the soil has dried completely. In winter do not water. Maihueniopsis glomerata does not need pruning or fertilizers. Copana cactus can be attacked by fungi if there is excess moisture. Maihueniopsis glomerata propagates easily by division of segments or from seeds sown in spring in a sandy seedbed. |
Images of the cactus Maihueniopsis glomerata or Copana cactus |