Care of the cacti Austrocactus coxii or Austrocactus intertextus |
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The genus Austrocactus, family Cactaceae, includes 5 species of cacti native to South America. The species are: Austrocactus coxii, Austrocactus patagonicus, Austrocactus bertinii, Austrocactus spiniflorus, Austrocactus philippii. Scientific synonyms: Austrocactus intertextus, Echinocactus coxii, Malacocarpus coxii. This species is native to Argentina and Chile. They are solitary or branched cacti from the base with a cylindrical body that reach 60 cm (23.6") in height. They present 6-10 ribs with tubercles and 4 central spines 4 cm (1.57") long and 6-10 radial spines. The attractive red, orange or yellow flowers are 3.5 cm (1.37") in diameter. They bloom in summer. Echinocactus coxii is used in rockeries, in cactus and succulent gardens, and in pots for patios and terraces. Austrocactus coxii needs full sun exposure and a dry climate. In very hot summer climates it is better to place them in semi-shade. It resists frost well if the soil is completely dry. The soil can be a commercial substrate for cacti with 20% coarse sand; it is very important that the drainage is excellent. Pot transplant every 2 years in spring to renew the substrate. Water moderately, waiting for the substrate to be completely dry; It resists drought well. Do not water in winter. Fertilize once in spring with mineral fertilizer for cacti. Austrocactus intertextus does not need pruning. Austrocactus coxii is a plant quite resistant to the usual pests and diseases but sensitive to excess humidity, especially in winter. Malacocarpus coxii is propagated from seeds sown in the seedbed in spring and by separating suckers in summer or spring. |
Images of the cacti Austrocactus coxii or Austrocactus intertextus |
 Austrocactus coxii  Austrocactus coxii |