Notocactus / notocactus

Refers to the family of cacti. Fatherland is South America.

General description: Notocactus is also called "cactus-ball" due to the fact that most species have a globose stem. Another feature is abundant and early flowering.

Usually in the room conditions the following species are bred:

Notocactus ottonis (Notocactus Otto) . This is a typical notoktus. He has a spherical stem with sparse, stiff, curved thorns. Flowers up to 8 cm in diameter, yellow.

Notocactus leninghausii (Notocactus Lenhinghouse) owns a columnar stem with long yellow thorns, can reach 1 m in height. The flattened top of the stem tilts toward the sun. Spring flowers yellow flowers. A fairly unpretentious plant.

Notocactus apricus (Notocactus aphyllous) . Stem is spherical, compact, ribbed. Impressive curled spines. The flowers are yellow 8 cm in diameter.

Recommendations for caring for the plant Notocactus:

Illumination : Photophilous, prefer southern windows, but in the spring should be carefully accustomed to direct sunlight, in order to avoid burns. In the summer noon you need a shade.

Irrigation regime : Abundant during growth, in winter unusual.

Humidity : Does not need to be sprayed.

For the summer it is better to place on a fresh atmosphere (in the park or on the balcony). In winter, a dry essence is necessary.

Temperature regime : In summer the temperature should be 22-23 ° C, in winter 10-12 ° C, at least 10 ° C.

Soil : Drainage is mandatory. You can add charcoal and brick chips.

Recommended soil mix: 1 share of sod, 1 share of leaf, 1 share of peat land and 1 share of sand.

During the growth period, it needs fertilizing once every two weeks with fertilizers for cacti and succulents.

Breeding : Children and seeds.

Transplantation : In the spring, young plants annually, mature once a couple of years.

Pests : It is affected by scarlet spider mites (in a dry atmosphere, leaves and stems are braided with cobwebs).

For the prevention of the plant is recommended to wipe with medical alcohol.

With a slight infection, the plant is allowed to help finish with a soap solution and a warm wash.

In case of severe damage, spraying with an insecticide solution (acticle, decis, phytoverm etc.) is recommended.

Notocactus leninghausi - Notocactus leninghausii

Sunburn on the stem of the notocctus

Notocactus sunflower - Notocactus apricus

Noctactus sun-loving - notocactus apricus

Noctocactus otto - notocactus ottonis

Notocactus leninghausi - notocactus leninghausii

Sunburn on the stem of the notocctus