Care of the cacti Thelocactus macdowellii or Echinocactus macdowellii |
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The genus Thelocactus, family Cactaceae, comprises about 10 species of cacti native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. Some species are: Thelocactus macdowellii, Thelocactus conothelos, Thelocactus hexaedrophorus, Thelocactus bicolor, Thelocactus setispinus, Thelocactus nidulans, Thelocactus lophothele. Scientific synonyms: Echinocactus macdowellii, Neolloydia macdowellii, Echinomastus macdowellii. This species is native to northeastern Mexico. They are small cacti with a spherical body that lengthens over time until they reach 10 cm (3.93") in height; They can produce suckers. The ribs are divided into conical tubercles and the white areoles have 15-25 white radial spines and 2-4 central spines. They produce showy magenta or pink flowers at the apex of the cactus. They bloom in late winter or early spring. The fruits are green. Due to their small dimensions they are used in pots for windows, balconies, patios and terraces and as indoor plants located next to a sunny window. The Thelocactus macdowellii prefers full sun exposure but also grows in semi-shade. Frost resistant to -7 ºC (19.4 ºF). They grow in very well drained soils that contain little organic matter. Transplant in mid-spring if roots appear below the pot. Always water moderately, waiting for the substrate to be completely dry. In winter do not water. Fertilize once in spring with mineral fertilizer for cacti. Pruning is not necessary. They are plants quite resistant to the usual pests and diseases but sensitive to excess humidity. If they are grown indoors they must have good ventilation. They are propagated by separating suckers and from seeds sown in spring. |
Images of the cacti Thelocactus macdowellii or Echinocactus macdowellii |
 Thelocactus macdowellii  Thelocactus macdowellii |