Origin
The Neolloydia johnsonii (Parry ex Engelm.) L. Benson var. lutescens (Parish) W.T. Marsh is a cactus plant that originated in North America, specifically in the states of Arizona, California, Nevada, Utah, and Mexico.
Common Names
The Neolloydia johnsonii (Parry ex Engelm.) L. Benson var. lutescens (Parish) W.T. Marsh is commonly known as the yellow-flowered hedgehog cactus or the Johnson's fishhook cactus.
Uses
The Neolloydia johnsonii (Parry ex Engelm.) L. Benson var. lutescens (Parish) W.T. Marsh is primarily used as an ornamental plant due to its small size and colorful flowers. It can be used in rock gardens, xeriscapes, and other low-water landscaping projects.
General Appearance
The Neolloydia johnsonii (Parry ex Engelm.) L. Benson var. lutescens (Parish) W.T. Marsh is a small cactus plant that grows up to 10-15 cm in height. It has a cylindrical or barrel-shaped stem that is covered in dense white spines that are curved towards the plant's body. The plant's yellow flowers are trumpet-shaped and grow up to 3 cm in diameter. The flowers bloom during spring and summer and are followed by reddish-purple fruits.
Light Requirements
Neolloydia johnsonii var. lutescens requires bright, direct sunlight to thrive. It is native to the Southwestern United States and Mexico, where it grows in full sun in rocky or sandy soil. In cultivation, it should be placed in a south-facing window or outdoors in a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is adapted to hot, arid conditions and can tolerate extreme temperatures. During the growing season (spring and summer), it prefers temperatures between 70-90°F (21-32°C). In the winter, it can tolerate temperatures as low as 40°F (4°C) and should be given a rest from watering to simulate its natural habitat.
Soil Requirements
Like most cacti, Neolloydia johnsonii var. lutescens requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A mix of sand and perlite or pumice is ideal for this plant, as it mimics the rocky soil it grows in naturally. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral (around 6.0-7.0). The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but a slow-release cactus fertilizer can be added to the soil once a year in the spring.
Cultivation Methods
Neolloydia johnsonii var. lutescens is a cactus variety that grows well in well-draining soil and full sunlight. It does well in desert or Mediterranean climates, where the temperature ranges between 65°F-90°F (18°C-32°C). The plant should be grown in a container with sufficient drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging. The container should be filled with sandy soil that is rich in organic matter.
Watering Needs
The watering frequency for this plant can be tricky. It is preferable to water the Neolloydia johnsonii var. lutescens when the soil dries out completely, between intervals of 1-2 weeks. Overwatering can be fatal to this plant and, therefore, should be avoided. During winter, the frequency of watering should be reduced to once per month to avoid excess moisture retention.
Fertilization
Neolloydia johnsonii var. lutescens can benefit from light fertilization with a special cactus fertilizer. The ideal fertilizer to use is one that is high in phosphorus content and low in nitrogen. Fertilize the plant during its growing period, which is usually in the spring and early summer. Avoid fertilizing the plant in winter and late fall.
Pruning
There is no need to prune Neolloydia johnsonii var. lutescens regularly. However, dead or diseased parts of the plant should be removed immediately. To avoid damaging the stem, use sterilized pruning shears to cut out the affected section. If the plant outgrows its container, you can transplant it to a larger pot. Transplanting should be done during the growing period when the plant is actively growing to facilitate faster healing.
Propagation of Neolloydia johnsonii var. lutescens
Neolloydia johnsonii var. lutescens is a cactus plant that can be propagated by a few different methods:
Seed Propagation
The easiest method of propagation is by seed. Collect ripe seed, usually in the late spring or early summer, and plant them in well-draining soil. Cover them very lightly with soil, and put them in a warm, bright location. Germination usually begins in a week or two.
Offsets Propagation
Offsets, or side shoots, can sometimes form at the base of the mother plant. These can be removed and allowed to dry for a day or two. Then, put them in a well-draining soil mix made especially for cacti, and keep them in a warm, bright location.
Stem Cuttings Propagation
Stem cuttings can also be taken from a healthy mother plant. Cut a section of the stem approximately 4-6 inches long, and allow the cut area to scab over for a few days. Plant this cutting in a well-draining soil mix and keep it in a warm, bright location. Water sparingly until roots develop.
Propagation of Neolloydia johnsonii var. lutescens is relatively easy and straightforward. With patience and care, a new plant can be established and enjoyed in a garden or container.
Disease and Pest Management for Neolloydia johnsonii var. lutescens
Neolloydia johnsonii var. lutescens is a cactus species that is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Managing these problems is vital to ensure the healthy growth and development of the plant.
Common Diseases
One common disease that might affect this plant is stem rot, which is caused by a fungus. Symptoms include the softening and eventual collapse of the plant's stem. To manage this disease, remove any infected parts of the plant and avoid overhead watering. Additionally, ensure good soil drainage and provide adequate ventilation and sunlight to prevent the onset and spread of the disease.
Bacterial soft rot can also pose a threat to this plant. This disease often appears as water-soaked, soft, and slimy lesions that can be easily transmitted to other parts of the plant or other plants nearby. To manage this disease, remove any infected parts of the plant, sterilize any tools used, and avoid overwatering. Additionally, maintain good plant hygiene practices, such as avoiding overcrowding and ensuring adequate ventilation.
Common Pests
The most common pests that affect Neolloydia johnsonii var. lutescens are spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. All of these pests can cause leaf yellowing, stunted growth, and leaf drop, among other symptoms.
To manage these pests, use a gentle stream of water to wash them off the plant, being careful not to damage the plant's stem or leaves. Alternatively, use insecticidal soap or horticultural oils to control the infestation. Additionally, ensure good plant hygiene practices and inspect new plants for any signs of infestation before introducing them to your garden.
By taking proactive measures to manage diseases and pests, you can help keep your Neolloydia johnsonii var. lutescens healthy and thriving.
