Overview
Escobaria vivipara (Nutt.) Buxbaum var. alversonii (Coult.) D.R. Hunt is a succulent plant species of the cactus family, native to North America. This plant is also known as the Alverson’s cactus, and it is highly valued for its ornamental and medicinal properties.
Origin and Distribution
This plant is native to various regions across North America, including the United States and Canada. Specifically, it can be found in the Great Plains, Rocky Mountains, and the southwestern regions of the continent. Escobaria vivipara var. alversonii generally thrives in arid and semi-arid environments, which are characterized by low rainfall and high temperatures.
Common Names
Among the common names given to the Escobaria vivipara var. alversonii plant species are:
- Alverson’s cactus
- Spinystar
- Spinystar cactus
- Pup cactus
- Viviparous cory cactus
Uses
Escobaria vivipara var. alversonii has a widespread reputation as a medicinal plant that is used to treat various ailments. Indigenous North American tribes use the plant to alleviate conditions such as respiratory problems, digestive issues, and skin-related disorders. Furthermore, the Alverson’s cactus is a popular ornamental plant, and it is grown in gardens, indoors and outdoors.
General Appearance
Escobaria vivipara var. alversonii is a small, slow-growing plant species that produces cylindrical or globular, green stems that are about 5cm tall and 6cm in diameter. The stems are covered in small, sharp spines and clustered together to form compact colonies. In the spring, the Alverson’s cactus produces pink, purple, or lavender flowers that bloom near the stem tips. The flowers of this plant are hermaphroditic, and they attract bees, birds, and other pollinators.
Light Requirements
Escobaria vivipara var. alversonii prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It can withstand intense sunlight and does not require shade cover. However, young plants should be given shade to protect them from direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to dry, arid regions, and can withstand temperatures as low as -40°F and as high as 100°F. It is a cold-hardy species and requires a winter dormancy period at temperatures below 50°F. If the temperature exceeds 70°F in the winter season, it may break its dormancy and begin growing.
Soil Requirements
Escobaria vivipara var. alversonii prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soils with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. Sandy and gravelly soils with considerable amounts of organic matter are ideal for the plant's growth. It requires adequate drainage to prevent standing water. The plant is tolerant of various soil textures, including clay and loamy soils.
Cultivation Methods for Escobaria vivipara (Nutt.) Buxbaum var. Alversonii (Coult.) D.R. Hunt
Escobaria vivipara (Nutt.) Buxbaum var. alversonii (Coult.) D.R. Hunt, commonly known as Alverson's pincushion cactus is a relatively easy-to-grow cactus, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. These are some of the cultivation methods for Escobaria vivipara var. alversonii:
- Soil: Alverson's pincushion cactus grows best in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. A mix of 50% perlite and 50% cactus soil would be an ideal blend for planting in pots.
- Light requirements: This variety of Escobaria vivipara prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate direct sunlight, but it should be gradually introduced to avoid sunburn on the leaves.
- Temperature: Alverson's Pincushion Cactus thrives in warm temperatures between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, with a drop to 50-60 degrees Fahrenheit at night.
- Propagation: Escobaria vivipara var. alversonii can be propagated through its offsets. Cut the offsets at the base with a clean, sharp knife, and allow them to callus over for a week before planting them in new soil.
- Containers: If planting in a container, make sure to use one with drainage holes as the cactus is susceptible to root rot.
Watering Needs for Escobaria vivipara (Nutt.) Buxbaum var. alversonii (Coult.) D.R. Hunt
The watering needs of Alverson's Pincushion Cactus vary with its growing stage, climate, and container type. The following are some watering tips:
- During growing season: During the growing season, watering with moderation is necessary. However, it would help if you allow the soil to dry out entirely before watering again.
- In the winter: In winter, the Escobaria vivipara var. alversonii goes into dormancy, and it requires even less water than usual, only once every 4-6 weeks.
- Rainwater: Whenever possible, rainwater or distilled water should be used. Tap water should be left at room temperature and should not contain fluoride.
Fertilization of Escobaria vivipara (Nutt.) Buxbaum var. alversonii (Coult.) D.R. Hunt
While it is not necessary to fertilize your Alverson's pincushion cactus regularly, fertilizer can be used to promote growth and encourage flowering. Here are some tips on fertilizing your cactus:
- When to fertilize: Alverson's Pincushion Cactus can be fertilized once every four weeks during their growing season from spring to summer.
- Type of fertilizer: A water-soluble, low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer is ideal for alversonii. It is essential to dilute the fertilizer to 50% of its recommended strength before use.
Pruning of Escobaria vivipara (Nutt.) Buxbaum var. alversonii (Coult.) D.R. Hunt
Escobaria vivipara var. alversonii does not require regular pruning. However, pruning may be necessary to maintain the plant's shape or remove dead or damaged growth. Here are some tips on pruning:
- When to prune: Pruning should be done during the growing season, either in spring or early summer.
- How to prune:Cut off any dead, damaged, or diseased growth using a clean, sharp knife. Use pruning shears to remove any growth that is growing in the wrong direction or impeding airflow. Be sure to wear gloves when pruning to protect yourself from the cactus's spines.
Propagation of Escobaria vivipara (Nutt.) Buxbaum var. alversonii (Coult.) D.R. Hunt
Propagating Escobaria vivipara (Nutt.) Buxbaum var. alversonii (Coult.) D.R. Hunt can be accomplished through division, offsets, or seed sowing.
Division
Using a sharp, sterile knife or scissors, carefully divide the plant at the base into sections. Each section should have some roots and a small portion of stem. Replant each divided section in a well-draining soil mix and keep the soil moist until new growth appears.
Offsets
Escobaria vivipara (Nutt.) Buxbaum var. alversonii (Coult.) D.R. Hunt produces small offsets that can be removed from the parent plant and easily transplanted. Gently remove the offset from the parent plant using a sterile knife or scissors and replant in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist until the new plant is established.
Seed Sowing
Collect seeds from mature plants and sow them in a well-draining soil mix. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and keep the soil moist until germination occurs. Seeds typically germinate within two to three weeks. Once the seedlings have a few sets of leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or planted directly into the garden.
Disease Management
Escobaria vivipara var. alversonii can be affected by a variety of diseases, including root rot, stem rot, and bacterial soft rot. To manage these diseases, it is important to maintain proper soil drainage and avoid overwatering. If signs of disease are present, infected parts of the plant should be removed and disposed of properly to prevent further spread.
Pest Management
Common pests that can affect Escobaria vivipara var. alversonii include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. To manage these pests, it is important to regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation, such as yellow or stippled leaves and sticky residue. Infested areas should be isolated and treated with an appropriate insecticide. In addition, keeping the plant healthy and well-watered can help prevent pest infestations.
