Tephrocactus alexanderi - 5 seeds
Tephrocactus alexanderi - 5 seeds
Tephrocactus alexanderi is a small low depressed or erect succulent plant with some spherical branches forming spiny cushions. Tephrocactus alexanderi var. bruchii is generally included within (as a synonym of) Tephrocactus alexanderi, suggesting that there is not really a fundamental difference between the two, and hard to name accurately without knowing where they come from, and there remains a considerable confusion surrounding the true identity of this this plant. Tephrocactus alexanderi var. bruchii has roundish joints the size of a tennis ball, dark spreading-spines and beautiful white flowers, sometimes a well-defined pink-blue tint. The seeds are quite characteristic about 5,9-8.5 x 5.6 to 7.1 mm yellowish-white, sponge-like, highly irregular in shape and gnarled. Seeds vary considerably in size.
It is easy to grow. The main growing period is spring. It might produce some new segments in the autumn too. Hardiness: It is fairly cold resistant and hardy to -9°C depending on the clone. Exposure: Need full sun, (with insufficient illumination stems and spines get thinner as a result of the lack of sun) Soil requirements: It needs a very draining mineral substrate. Water needs: Watering during the active growing season (spring and summer); this will encourage steady growth. But be careful with watering (rot sensitive). Keep dry during the winter rest. Fertilization: Fertilize moderately during the growing season with diluted high potassium fertilizer.