Scientific Name
Rebutia fiebrigii (Gürke) Britton & Rose
Common Name(s)
Orange Crown Cactus, Flame Crown
Synonym(s)
Aylostera fiebrigii, Echinocactus fiebrigii
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Trichocereeae
Genus: Rebutia
Description
Rebutia fiebrigii is a small cactus with spherical to slightly elongated, pale green stems with conical tubercles and clusters of bristle-like spines. It grows solitary or clustering to form a mound, with stems reaching up to up to 2.4 inches (6 cm) in diameter.
In late spring and summer, the flowers emerge from low down on the stems and appear in such profusion, almost completely hiding the stems. They are funnel-shaped, measure up to 1.8 inches (4 cm) long and 1.6 inches (4 cm) in diameter, and vary in color from yellow, bright orange, or red-orange. The fruits are spherical, about 0.2 inches (0.5 cm) in diameter, greenish-brown to purplish, hidden among the spines, and contain dark brown to black seeds.
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 pretty 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 form a large cluster for the best viewing. When it blooms, this will make a stunning display. Lastly, ensure fertilizer during the growing season for the best results.
Repot as needed, preferably during the warm season. To repot your Rebutia, ensure the soil is dry before repotting, then gently remove the pot. Knock away the old soil from the roots, removing any rotted or dead roots. Treat any cuts with a fungicide. Place the plant in its new pot and backfill it with potting soil, spreading the roots 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
Rebutia fiebrigii is native to Bolivia.
Links
- Back to genus Rebutia
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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