Care of the cacti Coryphantha sulcata or Nipple Cactus |
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The genus Coryphantha, family Cactaceae, includes 40 species of cactus native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. Some species are: Coryphantha sulcata, Coryphantha pallida, Coryphantha ottonis, Coryphantha octacantha, Coryphantha maiz-tablasensis, Coryphantha macromeris, Coryphantha elephantides, Coryphantha durangensis, Coryphantha cornifera, Coryphantha compacta, Coryphantha andreae, Coryphantha werdermannii, Coryphantha recurvata. Common name: Nipple Cactus. This species is native to Texas and northern Mexico. They are small tussock cacti with a dark green globose body that reach 12 cm (4.72") in height. They have large conical tubercles 1 cm (0.39") in diameter with rounded areoles. They have 6-8 radial spines; the central spines (1 to 3) are yellowish and thunder gray with age. The yellow flowers with a red center are quite showy; they bloom in summer. They are used to grow them in pots and planters; they are ideal for well-lit and ventilated interiors. Coryphantha sulcata can grow in direct or semi-shade sun exposure. The winter safety temperature is 4 ºC (39.2 ºF). The soil can be a commercial cactus substrate with 20% coarse sand or gravel. Always water moderately, waiting for the soil to dry completely. In autumn water every 20-25 days and do not water in winter. No need to fertilize or prune. If there is excess moisture, they can be attacked by fungi or mealybugs, especially on the roots. They propagate easily by seeds sown in spring or by rooting suckers. |
Images of the cacti Coryphantha sulcata or Nipple Cactus |
 Coryphantha sulcata |