Overview
Escobaria vivipara (Nutt.) Buxbaum var. arizonica (Engelm.) D.R. Hunt, commonly known as Arizona spinystar or Arizona nipple cactus, is a small cactus species belonging to the family Cactaceae. This cactus is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is a hardy plant that can withstand harsh desert conditions, making it a popular species among cacti collectors and gardeners.
Appearance
Arizona spinystar cactus typically grows in a clumping habit, with multiple round-shaped stems that can reach up to 10cm in diameter. The stems are covered with dense clusters of sharp, white spines, which can grow up to 3cm in length. The flowers of this cactus are small and bell-shaped, ranging in color from pink to pale yellow. The fruits of the plant are small, fleshy berries that are edible, but not commonly consumed.
Uses
Arizona spinystar cactus is primarily grown for its ornamental value. It is often used in xeriscapes, rock gardens, and as an accent plant in container gardens. This cactus is drought-tolerant and requires minimal water once established, making it a low maintenance option for landscapes. In some Native American cultures, the fruit of the plant was used as a source of food and medicine.
Cultivation
Arizona spinystar cactus is a slow-growing plant that prefers full sun and dry, well-draining soil. It is hardy to USDA zones 5 to 9 and can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°F (-29°C). This cactus can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings, but it is important to handle the plant with care as the spines are sharp and can cause injury. It is important to protect the plant from excessive moisture as it is susceptible to rot.
Light Requirements
Escobaria vivipara var. arizonica thrives well under bright light conditions. It is a sun-loving cactus species and therefore requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight exposure daily. Placing the plant in a south-facing window or a spot with maximum exposure to the sun is recommended.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers moderate to warm temperatures. The ideal temperature range for Escobaria vivipara var. arizonica growth is between 60°F to 80°F. During the winter season, the plant can withstand temperatures as low as 20°F if kept dry. However, it is recommended to maintain the temperature above freezing for optimal growth.
Soil Requirements
Escobaria vivipara var. arizonica grows well in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. A cactus potting mix or a combination of sand, perlite or pumice, and compost can be used. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It is recommended to avoid using heavy soils or those that retain moisture for an extended time as it can cause root rot.
Cultivation methods of Escobaria vivipara var. arizonica
Escobaria vivipara var. arizonica is a slow-growing cactus that is relatively easy to grow. It is highly adaptable and can be planted in a variety of soil types, including sandy or rocky soil. However, it should be noted that the plant prefers well-draining soil to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
The plant should be planted in a location that receives full sun exposure, as this will stimulate optimal growth and flowering. During the cooler months and in colder climates, it is recommended to plant the cactus in areas with south-facing slopes that will receive more sun exposure.
Watering needs
Escobaria vivipara var. arizonica is a drought-tolerant cactus that can survive prolonged periods without water. However, during the growing season, the plant should be watered regularly to promote healthy growth and flowering. The frequency of watering should be reduced in the winter, as the plant will enter a period of dormancy.
When watering, it is important to avoid getting water on the plant's spines, as this can increase the risk of fungal infections and other diseases. It is recommended to use a watering can or a hose with a gentle mist attachment to water the plant.
Fertilization
Escobaria vivipara var. arizonica does not require a lot of fertilization and can survive with very little. However, if you decide to use fertilizers, it is recommended to use a low-nitrogen fertilizer at half strength. The fertilizer should be applied during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.
It is important to note that over-fertilization can lead to the plant becoming leggy and losing its compact shape. Therefore, it is recommended to use fertilizers sparingly and only when necessary.
Pruning
Escobaria vivipara var. arizonica does not require pruning, as it is a slow-growing and low-maintenance plant. However, if the cactus becomes overcrowded or too large for its space, it can be carefully pruned using sharp, sterile pruning tools. It is recommended to prune during the growing season, as this will allow the plant to heal more quickly.
When pruning, it is important to wear gloves and to avoid touching the plant's spines, as they can cause irritation and injury. Additionally, it is recommended to sterilize the pruning tools before and after use to avoid introducing any diseases or infections.
Propagation of Escobaria vivipara var. arizonica
Escobaria vivipara var. arizonica can be propagated through various methods including:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is an easy way to propagate Escobaria vivipara var. arizonica. Seeds should be collected from the plant when they are ripe and sown immediately in a well-draining, sandy soil mix. The seedlings should be kept in a warm and bright location, and the soil should be kept slightly moist. Germination can take up to several weeks to occur.
Offset division
Escobaria vivipara var. arizonica produces offsets that can be used for propagation. These offsets can be carefully removed and planted in well-draining, sandy soil mix. The pot should be kept in a bright and warm location, and the soil should be kept slightly moist. The offset will start growing as a new individual plant.
Stem Cuttings
Another method of propagation is through stem cuttings. The stem should be carefully cut and left to callus over for a few days before placing the cutting in a well-draining, sandy soil mix. The pot should be kept in a warm, bright location, and the soil should be kept slightly moist. The cutting should root in a few weeks.
Propagation of Escobaria vivipara var. arizonica through these methods is easy and can be achieved with some basic knowledge and care. By following proper procedures, one can achieve multiple new plants from one parent plant.
Disease Management
Escobaria vivipara var. arizonica is generally resistant to diseases, but it can still be affected by certain fungal and bacterial infections. One of the most common diseases that affect this plant is stem rot caused by the fungus Rhizoctonia solani. This disease can cause the stem to become soft and mushy, leading to wilting and eventually death of the plant.
To prevent stem rot, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure that the soil is well-draining. Also, avoid getting water on the stem and leaves when watering the plant. If you notice any signs of stem rot, remove the affected parts of the plant and treat it with a fungicide spray.
Another disease that can affect E. vivipara var. arizonica is bacterial soft rot caused by the bacteria Erwinia carotovora. This disease can cause the stem and roots to become soft and mushy, leading to wilting and death of the plant.
To prevent bacterial soft rot, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure that the soil is well-draining. Also, avoid getting water on the stem and leaves when watering the plant. If you notice any signs of bacterial soft rot, remove the affected parts of the plant and treat it with a copper-based fungicide spray.
Pest Management
E. vivipara var. arizonica can be affected by various pests, including mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They appear as white, cotton-like masses on the stem and leaves.
To control mealybugs, remove the affected parts of the plant and treat it with a neem oil spray. You can also use insecticidal soap to kill the bugs.
Spider mites are tiny insects that are difficult to see with the naked eye. They feed on the underside of the leaves, causing them to become yellow and dry. To control spider mites, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge them. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray to kill them.
Scale insects are small, hard-bodied insects that attach themselves to the stem and leaves of the plant. They appear as tiny bumps that are difficult to remove. To control scale insects, gently scrape them off the plant with a toothbrush or a cotton swab soaked in alcohol. You can also use a neem oil spray to kill them.
Regular inspection of your E. vivipara var. arizonica plant can help you detect any pest or disease problems early, so you can take appropriate measures to prevent them from causing serious damage to the plant.
