Coryphantha macromeris (Engelm.) Lem. var. macromeris
Coryphantha macromeris (Engelm.) Lem. var. macromeris is a species of cactus native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It belongs to the Coryphantha genus within the Cactaceae family. This plant is known by various common names including devil's pincushion, bigflower cory cactus, and magnanimus cory cactus.
Appearance
Coryphantha macromeris (Engelm.) Lem. var. macromeris is a small-sized cactus that typically measures up to 20 centimeters tall and 20 centimeters wide. It has a spherical or cylindrical-shaped stem with a diameter of 5 to 12 centimeters. The stem is covered with small, whitish or yellowish spines and woolly areoles. The plant blooms in April to June and produces large, showy flowers that measure up to 7.5 centimeters in diameter. The flowers are yellow or orange and have a funnel or bell-shaped structure.
Uses
Coryphantha macromeris (Engelm.) Lem. var. macromeris has several medicinal uses. The plant is used to treat various ailments such as inflammation, fever, and pain. The roots and stems of the plant are consumed by some Native American tribes as food. The plant is also cultivated as an ornamental plant, and it is often seen growing in cactus gardens and rockeries.
Light Requirements
The Coryphantha macromeris var. macromeris plant requires full sun to thrive. It prefers bright and direct sunlight, so it is recommended to place the plant in an area with at least 6 hours of sun exposure.
Temperature Requirements
This species prefers a warm and dry climate, typical of desert environments. The ideal temperature range is between 60°F (15.6°C) and 90°F (32.2°C). The plant can tolerate colder temperatures for a short period, but extended exposure to freezing temperatures may cause damage.
Soil Requirements
The Coryphantha macromeris var. macromeris plant requires a well-draining, sandy or gravelly soil that mimics its native desert habitat. A pH level between 6.0 and 7.5 is ideal for optimal growth. The soil should not retain too much moisture, and it is recommended to let the soil dry out completely between watering.
Cultivation Methods
Coryphantha macromeris (Engelm.) Lem. var. macromeris is native to arid and semiarid regions of North America. To cultivate this plant in your garden, it is important to create similar conditions. The plant prefers full sunlight and well-draining soil. It is important to ensure that the soil is not waterlogged as the plant is not tolerant to wet feet.Watering Needs
Although Coryphantha macromeris (Engelm.) Lem. var. macromeris is drought-tolerant, it still requires regular watering. It is recommended to water the plant approximately once a week during the growing season, depending on the weather conditions. Avoid over-watering, as it can lead to root rot and other related problems.Fertilization
Fertilizing Coryphantha macromeris (Engelm.) Lem. var. macromeris is not necessary as it grows in poor soil conditions. However, if you want to provide extra nutrients to the plant, it is advisable to use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer as high nitrogen can cause the plant to produce excessive foliage at the expense of flowers.Pruning
Coryphantha macromeris (Engelm.) Lem. var. macromeris does not require pruning. However, you can remove any dead, damaged, or diseased parts of the plant to maintain a healthy appearance. It is also important to remove any spent flowers to encourage new growth and enhance the plant's appearance.Propagation of Coryphantha macromeris var. macromeris
Coryphantha macromeris var. macromeris, commonly known as the Bigroot Cory Cactus, is a small, slow-growing cactus species native to the Sonoran and Chihuahuan Deserts in North America. This plant can be propagated using several methods:
Seed Propagation
The most common propagation method for Coryphantha macromeris var. macromeris is by seed. The seeds are small and black and need to be sown in sandy, well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate, which can take anywhere from two weeks to several months, depending on the temperature and humidity conditions. Once the seedlings have developed, they can be transplanted to individual containers with well-draining soil and given partial sunlight until they are mature enough for full sun exposure.
Offsets Propagation
Coryphantha macromeris var. macromeris can also be propagated by offsets. These are small offshoots that develop around the base of the mother plant. These offshoots can be carefully removed using a clean, sharp knife, making sure to include some roots. The offsets are then planted in well-draining soil in individual containers and kept in partial sunlight until established.
Grafting
Grafting is another propagation method that can be used on Coryphantha macromeris var. macromeris, particularly for more challenging cultivars. Grafting involves attaching a small piece of the Coryphantha macromeris var. macromeris plant to another rootstock, such as a faster-growing cactus species. Once the graft has taken, the plant can be transplanted to its permanent location. Grafting is a more complex propagation method and requires more expertise and experience than the other methods.
Disease and Pest Management for Coryphantha macromeris
Coryphantha macromeris (Engelm.) Lem. var. macromeris is a cactus species that is relatively resistant to most diseases and pests. However, there are still some issues that may arise and affect its growth and development. Below are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggestions on how to manage them.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect cacti, including Coryphantha macromeris, is root rot. This disease is usually caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil, which leads to the growth of fungi that attack the roots. To manage this disease, it is essential to avoid overwatering the plant and ensure that the soil is well-draining. If root rot occurs, it is advisable to repot the plant in a new container with fresh soil, removing as much of the affected roots as possible. Fungicides can also be used to prevent the spread of the disease.
Another disease that can affect cacti, including Coryphantha macromeris, is bacterial soft rot. This disease is caused by bacteria that enter the plant through wounds or damaged tissue. Symptoms of bacterial soft rot include soft, mushy spots on the plant, foul odor, and a watery discharge from affected areas. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove and dispose of the infected plant parts as soon as possible. Preventive measures, such as avoiding physical damage to the plant, can also help to prevent bacterial soft rot.
Common Pests
Coryphantha macromeris may also be attacked by pests, including mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Mealybugs are small, white insects that suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage mealybugs, it is essential to physically remove them from the plant using a cotton swab or spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause webbing on the plant and yellowing of leaves. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to regularly wash the plant with water and use a miticide if necessary.
Scale insects are small, oval-shaped pests that attach to the plant's stems and leaves, sucking sap and causing yellowing and stunted growth. To manage scale insects, it is recommended to physically remove them using a cotton swab or spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Overall, proper plant care and regular inspection are essential in preventing and managing diseases and pests that may affect Coryphantha macromeris.
