Origin
Coryphantha vivipara (Nutt.) Britt. & Rose var. bisbeeana (Orcutt) L. Benson, commonly known as Bisbee cory cactus, is a small, slow-growing species of cactus native to southern Arizona, United States, and northern Sonora, Mexico.
Common Names
This plant goes by several common names, including Bisbee cory cactus, viviparous pincushion cactus, and green pincushion cactus.
Uses
Coryphantha vivipara (Nutt.) Britt. & Rose var. bisbeeana (Orcutt) L. Benson is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive appearance and small size. It is often grown in rock gardens, containers, and other small spaces. This cactus is also used medicinally in some traditional Native American cultures, where it is believed to have pain-relieving properties.
General Appearance
The Bisbee cory cactus is a small, round cactus that usually grows to a height of 5-6 inches and a diameter of 8-10 inches. It has a single stem that is green in color and covered in a dense layer of spines. The cactus blooms in the spring or summer, producing small, yellow flowers that are approximately 1 inch in diameter. The plant is also notable for its ability to produce new plants from its root system, a process known as vivipary.
Light Requirements
Coryphantha vivipara var. bisbeeana requires full sun exposure to thrive. This plant cannot tolerate shade or partial sunlight. In its natural habitat, it grows in areas with abundant sunlight, so it is recommended to place it in locations with direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
This species prefers dry and arid environments, so it can withstand high temperatures. Coryphantha vivipara var. bisbeeana grows well in USDA hardiness zones 5-9, where the average temperature ranges between 45°F to 85°F during its active growth period.
Soil Requirements
Coryphantha vivipara var. bisbeeana prefers sandy or rocky soils that are well-draining. Good drainage is essential to prevent waterlogging or root rot. These plants are adapted to dry environments, and excess moisture can quickly damage them. Amend the soil with organic matter to improve its fertility, and raised beds can be beneficial in wetter areas.
Cultivation Methods
Coryphantha vivipara (Nutt.) Britt. & Rose var. bisbeeana (Orcutt) L. Benson is a species of cactus that are ideal for growing in rock gardens or as container houseplants. To start cultivation, prepare a pot filled with well-draining soil. Plant the cactus by digging a hole and placing the roots gently. Make sure that the soil is stable around the base to prevent base rotting. The plant needs plenty of light, so placing it in a sunny location is essential to its growth and development.
Watering Needs
When it comes to watering the Coryphantha vivipara (Nutt.) Britt. & Rose var. bisbeeana (Orcutt) L. Benson, the rule is to water sparingly. The plant is drought-tolerant, and too much water can be harmful. Ensure that the soil is dry before watering. During the hot season, the plant may require more water, but it is still advisable to water less frequently. When you do water the plant, make sure to water the soil directly rather than the plant's body to prevent rotting.
Fertilization
The Coryphantha vivipara (Nutt.) Britt. & Rose var. bisbeeana (Orcutt) L. Benson species does not require much fertilizer. During the growing season, you may add a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month. However, be careful not to add too much fertilizer as it can lead to excessive plant growth and mediocre blooms.
Pruning
Coryphantha vivipara (Nutt.) Britt. & Rose var. bisbeeana (Orcutt) L. Benson does not require much pruning. However, removing dead or decaying parts of the plant is essential in keeping it attractive and healthy. Pruning also helps enhance air circulation to prevent fungal diseases from developing. If the plant has grown too large, you may prune it to reduce its size.
Propagation of Coryphantha vivipara (Nutt.) Britt. & Rose var. bisbeeana (Orcutt) L. Benson
Coryphantha vivipara (Nutt.) Britt. & Rose var. bisbeeana (Orcutt) L. Benson, commonly known as Bisbee fishhook cactus, can be propagated by both seed and vegetative methods. Here are the details:
Propagation by seed
The easiest and most commonly practiced method of propagation for Coryphantha vivipara var. bisbeeana is by seed. The seeds of this plant can be sown in spring when the temperature is warm enough. The ideal temperature for seed germination is around 70°F (21°C). Before sowing, the seeds need to be cleaned and pre-treated with a fungicide to prevent fungal infection. Once sown, the seeds require well-draining soil, bright but filtered light, and regular watering to keep the soil moist.
Propagation by division
Coryphantha vivipara var. bisbeeana can also be propagated by division of mature plants. When propagating by division, it is important to choose a healthy plant with at least two to three stems that have rooted to the soil. The best time to propagate by division is in spring when the plant is actively growing. Using a sharp, sterilized knife or garden shears, carefully separate the stems at the base and replant them in a pot with pre-moistened cactus soil mix.
Propagation by offsets
Propagation by offsets is another vegetative method of propagating Coryphantha vivipara var. bisbeeana. Offsets are small plants that grow at the base of the mother plant. They can be detached from the mother plant through gentle twisting or cutting. Once detached, replant the offsets in a separate container with well-draining soil and water them regularly until they establish roots.
Disease and Pest Management for Coryphantha vivipara (Nutt.) Britt. & Rose var. bisbeeana (Orcutt) L. Benson
Coryphantha vivipara (Nutt.) Britt. & Rose var. bisbeeana (Orcutt) L. Benson, commonly known as the Bisbee cory cactus, is a robust and hardy plant. However, it is not immune to diseases and pests that can cause damage and even death if not managed properly. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
1. Cactus Anthracnose: This fungal disease is caused by the Colletotrichum coccodes and can be identified by the brown or black spots on the plant. To manage this disease, remove any infected parts of the plant and spray with a recommended fungicide.
2. Bacterial Soft Rot: This disease is caused by the Erwinia carotovora bacteria and can cause wilting and eventual death of the plant. Remove any infected parts of the plant as soon as possible and discard them. Avoid overwatering and ensure that the plant has good drainage.
3. Root Rot: This disease is caused by various fungi, including Fusarium, Pythium, and Phytophthora species, and can cause the plant to wilt and eventually die. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering, ensure good drainage, and use a well-draining soil mix. Remove any infected plants and avoid planting new ones in the same spot.
Common Pests
1. Mealybugs: These pests are small and white and can be found on the plant's roots, stems, and leaves. They suck sap from the plant and can cause yellowing and stunted growth. To manage mealybugs, remove them manually with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or use a recommended insecticide.
2. Spider mites: These pests are tiny and can be identified by the fine webbing they produce on the plant. They suck sap from the plant and can cause yellowing and leaf drop. To manage spider mites, use a recommended acaricide and ensure that the plant is well-hydrated.
3. Scale insects: These pests are small and can be found on the plant's stems and leaves. They suck sap from the plant and can cause yellowing and discoloration. To manage scale insects, remove them manually with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or use a recommended insecticide.
In conclusion, Coryphantha vivipara (Nutt.) Britt. & Rose var. bisbeeana (Orcutt) L. Benson can be affected by various diseases and pests. It is essential to identify and manage these diseases and pests early to prevent further damage and death of the plant. Always use recommended fungicides and insecticides and avoid overwatering the plant.
