Overview
Coryphantha dasyacantha (Engelm.) Orcutt var. varicolor (Tiegel) L. Benson is a species of cactus that is native to southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. It is a hardy and resilient plant that is known for its drought tolerance and showy flowers. The plant is also sometimes referred to as the beehive cactus or yellow-pink pincushion.
General Appearance
The Coryphantha dasyacantha (Engelm.) Orcutt var. varicolor (Tiegel) L. Benson is a small cactus that typically reaches a height of about 3 to 6 inches (7 to 15 cm) and a diameter of 2 to 5 inches (5 to 12 cm). It has a rounded, globular shape and is covered in small, white spines that give it a fuzzy appearance. The cactus also produces vibrant, yellow-pink flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer.
Uses
The Coryphantha dasyacantha (Engelm.) Orcutt var. varicolor (Tiegel) L. Benson is primarily grown as an ornamental plant. Its striking flowers and attractive appearance make it a popular choice for desert landscapes, rock gardens, and xeriscapes. Additionally, some Native American tribes have used the plant for medicinal purposes, including treating stomach problems and easing pain.
Additional Information
Coryphantha dasyacantha (Engelm.) Orcutt var. varicolor (Tiegel) L. Benson is a member of the cactus family, which includes over 2,000 species. It is a slow-growing plant that prefers well-draining soils and full sun exposure. The plant is also drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. However, it should be protected from extreme temperatures and frost.
Light Requirements
Coryphantha dasyacantha var. varicolor typically grows best in full sunlight. They require at least 6-8 hours of light per day to grow and thrive. Inadequate light can cause the plant to grow spindly and weak.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Coryphantha dasyacantha var. varicolor is between 65-85°F (18-30°C). They can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F(10°C) and as high as 100°F (38°C), but extreme temperatures can be detrimental to their growth.
Soil Requirements
Coryphantha dasyacantha var. varicolor prefers well-draining soil that is mildly acidic or neutral. They can grow in a variety of soils, but they must not be left in wet soil for prolonged periods as this can cause root rot. A sandy soil mix with added perlite is ideal for this plant.
Cultivation Methods
Coryphantha dasyacantha var. varicolor grows best in warm, dry climates with full sun exposure. It is a low-growing, small plant that thrives in well-draining soil and does not require much space. The plant does well in rock gardens, containers, and raised beds.
Watering Needs
When watering the plant, a deep soaking method is recommended. Water the plant thoroughly and allow the soil to dry out before repeating the process. During the winter months, the plant requires less water as it goes dormant. Overwatering can lead to root rot and damage the plant.
Fertilization
Coryphantha dasyacantha var. varicolor requires minimal fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring should be sufficient. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant winter months.
Pruning
The plant requires little pruning, but removing dead or damaged foliage is necessary. When the plant outgrows its space, it can be pruned to maintain its size and shape. It is recommended to prune during the active growing season in the spring or summer.
Propagation of Coryphantha dasyacantha var. varicolor
Coryphantha dasyacantha var. varicolor, also known as the Mojave Fishhook Cactus, is a slow-growing and long-lived cactus species native to the Mojave Desert in California, Arizona, and Nevada, USA. The plant is mainly propagated through seeds, offsets, and grafting.
Propagation by Seeds
The natural way to propagate Coryphantha dasyacantha var. varicolor is through seeds. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil mix, preferably with a high percentage of pumice or perlite. It is best to start the seeds indoors in pots or trays, using a heat mat or grow light to provide warmth and light until the seeds germinate.
After germination, the seedlings should be kept in a bright and airy location, away from direct sunlight. When the seedlings outgrow their original containers, they can be transplanted into larger pots or to their permanent location in the garden.
Propagation by Offsets
Coryphantha dasyacantha var. varicolor produces small offsets, also known as pups or suckers, around the base of the mother plant. These offsets can be gently detached from the mother plant using a sharp, sterilized knife and planted in a separate pot with well-draining soil. The new plant should be watered moderately until it establishes a strong root system.
Propagation by Grafting
Propagation by grafting is often used by cacti enthusiasts and commercial growers to speed up the growth and increase the survival rate of slow-growing and rare cactus species like Coryphantha dasyacantha var. varicolor. For this method, a cutting of the cactus is glued on a rootstock of a faster-growing cactus of a related species, like a Hylocereus or a Myrtillocactus.
The two plants eventually fuse together, and the Coryphantha dasyacantha var. varicolor can benefit from the stronger and more vigorous root system and faster growth rate of the rootstock. Grafted plants should be kept in partial shade and protected from excessive heat and cold until they establish.
Disease Management
Coryphantha dasyacantha (Engelm.) Orcutt var. varicolor (Tiegel) L. Benson is a hardy plant species. However, it can still suffer from various diseases if proper care is not taken. The following are some of the common diseases that can affect the plant:
- Anthracnose: A fungal disease that causes brownish spots to form on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage anthracnose, infected parts of the plant should be removed and destroyed, and a fungicide sprayed on the remaining healthy parts of the plant.
- Root Rot: Root rot is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. It manifests as yellowing leaves, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage root rot, the plant should be transplanted into well-draining soil, and watering should be reduced.
- Grey Mold: Grey mold is caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea. Symptoms include brown spots on the leaves, stem cankers, and wilted flowers. To manage Grey Mold, remove infected plant parts, and apply a fungicide to the remaining healthy parts of the plant.
Pest Management
Coryphantha dasyacantha (Engelm.) Orcutt var. varicolor (Tiegel) L. Benson is also susceptible to several pests. The following are the common pests encountered:
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are small insects that thrive in hot, dry environments. They feed on the sap of plants, causing leaves to turn yellow and die. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a soap and water solution or an insecticidal spray.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs look like tiny white cotton balls and attach to the stems and leaves of a plant. They feed on the sap, causing leaves to yellow and drop. To manage mealybugs, get rid of infected plant parts, and apply insecticidal soap on the remaining healthy parts of the plant.
- Scale Insects: Scale insects are small insects that attach to the stems and leaves of plants. They feed on the sap causing discoloration and leaf drop. To manage scale insects, scrap them off the plant using a soft-bristled brush, then spray the plant with insecticidal soap.
Regularly checking Coryphantha dasyacantha (Engelm.) Orcutt var. varicolor (Tiegel) L. Benson for signs of disease and pests will help manage them before they become severe. Prevention is always better than cure, so ensure you provide the plant with adequate lighting, nutrients, and water.
