Scientific Name
Weingartia tiraquensis (Cárdenas) F.H.Brandt
Synonym(s)
Rebutia steinbachii subsp. tiraquensis, Rebutia tiraquensis, Sulcorebutia tiraquensis
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Trichocereeae
Genus: Rebutia
Etymology
The specific epithet "tiraquensis" (pronounced "tee-rah-KWEN-sis") means "of or from Tiraque" and refers to Tiraque, a province in the Cochabamba Department in central Bolivia, where this species is native.
Origin
Weingartia tiraquensis is native to Bolivia.
Description
Weingartia tiraquensis, formerly known as Rebutia tiraquensis or Rebutia steinbachii subsp. tiraquensis, is a usually clustering, rarely solitary cactus that readily forms clumps of many heads. The stems are grayish-green to dark green, sometimes very dark magenta-green, and almost entirely concealed by variously colored spines.
In the spring, Weingartia tiraquensis produces numerous bright pink to light purple flowers in a ring at the base of the plant. The flowers can reach up to 1.4 inches (3.5 cm) in length and 1.8 inches (4.5 cm) in diameter. They remain open for up to five days.
Subspecies of Weingartia tiraquensis
- Weingartia tiraquensis subsp. krahnii
- Weingartia tiraquensis subsp. tiraquensis
How to Grow and Care for Weingartia tiraquensis
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25°F (-3.9°C) to 50°F (10°C).
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 typical for many cactus species, including a winter cooling period 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 standing 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, fertilize 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 out as you repot. Leave the plant dry for a week or so, then water lightly to reduce the risk of root rot.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Rebutia.
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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