Scientific Name
Denmoza rhodacantha (Salm-Dyck) Britton & Rose
Synonym(s)
Cereus erythrocephalus, Cereus rhodacanthus, Denmoza erythrocephalus, Echinocactus rhodacanthus, Echinopsis rhodocantha, Pilocereus erythrocephalus
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Trichocereeae
Genus: Denmoza
Origin
Denmoza rhodacantha is native to Argentina.
Description
Denmoza rhodacantha is a cactus that starts as a spherical stem and stays that way for quite some time before evolving into a column. The stem is pale green to dark green and has 15 to 30 ribs. It slowly grows and can reach up to 5 feet (1.5 m) in height and up to 1 foot (30 cm) in diameter. The spines are awl-shaped and slightly curved, measuring up to 1.2 inches (3 cm) long. They are initially brownish-red but become grey as they mature. Each areole bears 8 to 10 radial spines and one, often absent, central spine.
The flowers are tubular, bright red with white hairs, and can reach up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) long.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Like most cacti, Cereus are fairly low-maintenance and hardy. Ensure they receive enough water without becoming waterlogged, especially during the summer, and fertilize them for the best results. If the roots have become black or overly soft, the cactus could be experiencing root rot. Cut away the affected parts and replant them. Most gardeners interested in cacti should be able to cultivate these without much problem.
If your Cereus outgrows its container, it may become necessary to repot it. If so, ensure the soil is dry and then remove the pot. Knock away old soil, prune away rotted or dead roots, and then replace it in a new pot and backfill it with fresh soil. Ensure that cacti are not overwatered when planted in new pots, which can lead to root rot. They should be left dry for about a week and then watered lightly.
These cacti propagate pretty easily from cuttings. Simply sever a branch and replant in moist, well-drained soil.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Cereus.
Links
- Back to genus Denmoza
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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