Scientific Name
Rebutia cintia Hjertson
Synonym(s)
Cintia knizei, Copiapoa knizei, Weingartia cintia
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Trichocereeae
Genus: Rebutia
Description
Rebutia cintia, also known as Cintia knizei, is a dwarf cactus with globose stems that grow up to 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter. The color of the stems can vary depending on the season, amount of sun, and water, from olive-green to purple or brown. The tuberous carrot-like roots grow up to 4 inches (10 cm) long. The areoles are woolly with no spines and sunken between the tubercles. Flowers are yellow, up to 1.6 inches (4 cm) in diameter, and appear in spring on the stem tip.
The specific epithet "cintia" refers to the name of the province Nor Cinti. This species was first found by Karel Kniže in 1969 but not formally described until 1996 by Jan Řiha under the name Cintia knizei.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
If you can grow cacti and succulents successfully, you can likely grow the popular Rebutias without too much trouble. Their water and light requirements are fairly typical for many cacti species, including a cooling period in the winter, to promote better blooming. Watering should be done carefully, allowing the plant to almost dry out between waterings. The cactus mustn't be exposed to prolonged dampness and sitting water. Never let your cactus sit in a dish of water. Instead of propagating your offsets, let the plant for a large cluster for the best viewing. When it blooms, this will make a truly beautiful display. Lastly, make sure to fertilizer during the growing season for the best results.
Repot as needed, preferably during the warm season. To repot your Rebutia, make sure the soil is dry before repotting, then gently remove the pot. Knock away the old soil from the roots, making sure to remove any rotted or dead roots in the process. Treat any cuts with a fungicide. Place the plant in its new pot and backfill with potting soil, spreading the roots out as you repot. Leave the plant dry for a week or so, then begin to water lightly to reduce the risk of root rot.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Rebutia.
Origin
This species is native to the high Andes of Bolivia.
Links
- Back to genus Rebutia
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.
