Scientific Name
Ortegocactus macdougallii Alexander
Synonym(s)
Neobesseya macdougallii
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Cacteae
Genus: Ortegocactus
Origin
This species is native to Mexico (Oaxaca).
Description
Ortegocactus macdougallii is a small, clump-forming cactus with greenish-gray, globular stems with rhomboid tubercles topped with a cluster of spines. The stems slowly grow and can reach up to 1.6 inches (4 cm) in diameter. The spines are black or whitish with a black tip, measuring 0.4 inches (1 cm) long. Each areole bears one central spine and 7 to 8 radial spines.
The flowers are yellow, funnel-shaped, and appear in spring. They can reach up to 1.2 inches (3 cm) in length and 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter. The fruits are reddish, spherical, slightly extended, and can grow up to 0.2 inches (0.5 cm) in diameter.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Like so many of the small species of Mexican cacti, Ortegocactus is highly prized by collectors. Ortegocactus macdougallii likes light shade to full sun. It is often grafted since it is tricky to grow when on its own roots. Water moderately in summer and very carefully, if at all, in winter. It shows a distinct intolerance to overwatering, either by rotting off or bursting the epidermis. Grow Ortegocactus in a fast-draining mineral mix. You should limit the fertilizer to prevent growing a monster totally out of proportion to its attractive and natural form.
Many authors recommend grafting, first on Pereskiopsis and soon on Myrtillocactus geometrizans. If it does not reject the stock, it can be cultivated without problems.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Ortegocactus.
Links
- Back to genus Ortegocactus
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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