Care of the cactus Airampoa soehrensii or Airampo cactus |
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The genus Airampoa (formerly known as Tunilla), in the family Cactaceae, includes four species of cacti native to South America. The species are: Airampoa soehrensii, Airampoa corrugata, Airampoa erectoclada, and Airampoa tilcarensis. Common names: Golden Ball Cactus, Airampo cactus. Scientific synonym: Tunilla soehrensii. This species is native to Argentina, Bolivia, Chile and Peru. Airampoa soehrensii is a small, trailing cactus branching from the base, reaching 15 cm (5.9") in height and almost 1 meter (39.37") in width. The flat or cylindrical, light green segments measure 6 cm (2.36") in length. The areoles bear 5-8 erect, yellowish spines. The showy 5 cm (1.96") flowers can be yellow, red, or orange. The fruits are red. Airampo cactus is used in rockeries, low-maintenance gardens, cactus and succulent gardens, along a south-facing wall, and in hanging pots as an indoor plant, terrace, and patio plant. Airampoa soehrensii requires full sun exposure and a dry, warm climate. It tolerates short-term frosts and intense heat well. Tunilla soehrensii grows in any type of well-drained soil, whether stony, dry, or sandy. You can use a commercial cactus substrate or a regular garden soil with 30% gravel or coarse sand. Always water moderately, waiting until the substrate has completely dried. Do not water in winter if grown outdoors, and water at most once a month if grown in a pot. Fertilize monthly with cactus fertilizer during spring. Prunes off dry or damaged segments. Airampoa soehrensii does not usually present serious pest and disease problems, but it can be attacked by mealybugs if it lacks good ventilation if grown indoors. Airampo cactus is easily propagated by segment cuttings in spring or summer. |
Images of the cactus Airampoa soehrensii or Airampo cactus |
 Airampoa soehrensii  Airampoa soehrensii |