Overview
Coryphantha missouriensis (Sweet) Britt. & Rose var. robustior (Engelm.) L. Benson is a slow-growing cactus species that is native to the central and western parts of North America. The plant is commonly known as the Missouri Foxtail Cactus and is widely grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive appearance.
Appearance
The Missouri Foxtail Cactus is a small-sized plant that typically grows up to 5 inches tall and spreads out up to 6 inches wide. The plant has a cushion-like growth form with globular to short cylindrical greenish-grey stems that are covered in numerous white, bristly spines. The blooming period of the plant occurs from late spring to early summer when it produces small, pale pink to magenta flowers.
Uses
In addition to being grown as an ornamental plant, Missouri Foxtail Cactus has also been used for medicinal purposes. The gel extracted from the plant has been used to treat burns, cuts, and other skin ailments due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It is also used as a diuretic and to treat kidney stones and other urinary tract issues.
Furthermore, the plant is used as a source of food for wildlife, particularly rodents and birds who consume its small fruit.
Cultivation
The Missouri Foxtail Cactus is a slow-growing and low maintenance plant that requires minimal care and attention. The plant prefers well-draining soil and requires moderate watering during the growing season. It is also drought-tolerant and can survive for an extended period without water.
The Missouri Foxtail Cactus is best grown in bright indirect light to partial shade, making it suitable for outdoor and indoor cultivation. During the winter season, the plant must be protected from frost and freezing temperatures by being moved indoors or covering them with protective materials.
Overall, the Missouri Foxtail Cactus is an attractive plant that is easy to cultivate and has several practical uses.
Light Requirements
The Coryphantha missouriensis var. robustior prefers to grow in full sunlight. It is adapted to the high levels of bright sunlight in its native habitat, so it requires several hours of sunshine to grow properly.
Temperature Requirements
The Coryphantha missouriensis var. robustior is well adapted to live in cold winter conditions. During winter, temperatures below freezing are common, and the plant tolerates these conditions quite well. During the summer months, the temperatures are hot, but the plant has developed mechanisms to protect itself from the sun and heat. It is important to avoid exposing this plant to high temperatures exceeding 90°F.
Soil Requirements
The Coryphantha missouriensis var. robustior prefers well-drained soils that are slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0). It can tolerate soils that are nutrient poor, but it thrives best in fertile soils. It requires soil that is rich in minerals, particularly calcium, and magnesium. This type of soil can be achieved by adding organic material, like compost, to the soil to improve its quality.
Cultivation methods
Coryphantha missouriensis (Sweet) Britt. & Rose var. robustior (Engelm.) L. Benson grows best in areas with plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil. Planting should be done during the spring or early summer months, after the last frost. Young plants are vulnerable to cold temperatures, so it's best to protect them during the winter.
Watering needs
Coryphantha missouriensis (Sweet) Britt. & Rose var. robustior (Engelm.) L. Benson requires moderate watering during the growing season, but it's essential to avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. Watering once every two weeks is usually sufficient, depending on the local climate and soil conditions. During the winter months, the plant requires less water and may not need any at all.
Fertilization
Coryphantha missouriensis (Sweet) Britt. & Rose var. robustior (Engelm.) L. Benson does not require much fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help improve growth. Over-fertilizing can harm the plant and should be avoided.
Pruning
Coryphantha missouriensis (Sweet) Britt. & Rose var. robustior (Engelm.) L. Benson generally does not require pruning, but removing damaged or dead plant material can help promote new growth. When pruning, use clean and sharp tools to prevent any possible bacterial infections. Always cut back to healthy tissue, and avoid damaging the stem or roots.
Propagation of Coryphantha missouriensis var. robustior
Coryphantha missouriensis var. robustior, also known as Missouri foxtail cactus, is a popular ornamental plant among cactus enthusiasts. Its beautiful bright yellow flowers and furry cylindrical stems make it a fascinating addition to any cactus collection. This plant can be propagated relatively easily using different methods:
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds are the most common method of propagating Coryphantha missouriensis var. robustior. The seeds should be collected when the fruits are ripe, usually in late summer. The collected seeds should be kept in a cool and dry place until sowing. The soil mix for sowing seeds should be well-draining, and a mix of sand, peat, and perlite can be used. The seeds should be sown at a depth of around 0.5 cm and kept moist. After germination, the young plants should be kept in a warm and bright place, ensuring that the soil is not too dry.
Propagation by Cuttings
Coryphantha missouriensis var. robustior can be propagated by stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The stems should be cut using a sterile sharp knife, and care should be taken not to damage the mother plant. The cuttings should be left to dry for a day or so to prevent rotting. After drying, the cuttings should be planted in well-draining soil, slightly moistened and kept in a bright and warm place until rooting.
Propagation by Division
Coryphantha missouriensis var. robustior can also be propagated by division. The best time to divide the plant is in spring when it starts to grow. The plant should be carefully removed from the pot, and the roots should be gently untangled. The offsets should be separated from the parent plant using a sharp and sterilized knife. The new plants should be planted in well-draining soil and kept in a bright and warm place until established.
Overall, Coryphantha missouriensis var. robustior is a hardy succulent that can be propagated relatively easily using different methods. The best propagation method for a particular plant will depend on the resources available and the grower's preferences.
Disease Management
The Coryphantha missouriensis (Sweet) Britt. & Rose var. robustior (Engelm.) L. Benson can be affected by various diseases, including:
- Root Rot: caused by excessive soil moisture, this disease can lead to wilting, yellowing, and eventually the death of the plant. To manage root rot, ensure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering the plant.
- Fungal Leaf Spot: characterized by dark spots on the leaves, fungal leaf spot can cause the death of the plant. Manage this disease by avoiding overhead irrigation and removing infected leaves.
- Powdery Mildew: appearing as a white, powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant, powdery mildew is a common fungal disease. To manage it, ensure adequate air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead irrigation.
Pest Management
There are also several pests that can affect the Coryphantha missouriensis (Sweet) Britt. & Rose var. robustior (Engelm.) L. Benson, including:
- Spider Mites: these pests appear as tiny, speck-like creatures on the plant and can cause yellowing of the leaves. To manage spider mites, remove any heavily infested leaves and apply insecticidal soap.
- Scale Insects: these pests appear as small, brownish bumps on the stems and leaves of the plant. To manage scale insects, prune heavily infested areas and apply horticultural oil to the plant.
- Mealybugs: characterized by a white, cottony substance on the stems and leaves of the plant, mealybugs can cause stunted growth. To manage them, remove heavily infested areas and apply insecticidal soap or alcohol to the plant.
