Cactus ornamental plant or not. Names of cacti, types and care at home

Cactus is an extremely common culture in indoor floriculture. There are a huge number of species of the cactus family. What are the cacti and the names of the species can be found below.

All representatives can be divided into three groups:

• Pereskievye;
• prickly pear;
• Cereus.

These species differ in structure. So, Peresciaceae have round stems and flat leaves. which are covered with straight spines. often bloom solitary flowers. Differs in edible fruits.

Opuntia cacti are distinguished by small leaves covered with thorns.. In addition to spines, they also have glochidia. Glochidia are the modified leaves of a plant. Flowering large. The colors are varied. The fruits are mostly edible.

Cereus leaves and glochidia are absent. This is the largest family, which includes a variety of species. In some representatives, the fruits are edible. In general, Cereus cacti prefer dry areas.

cactus bloom

All varieties bloom, but not every representative will please with their flowering at home. For a culture to flourish, you need to create right conditions content for her.

Flowering depends on the variety. There are representatives with small flowers (Mammillaria). And in other species - large sizes. For example, this applies to Echinopsis. The size of its flower can reach 15 cm.

Flower color is varied: white, pink, red. So, for example, night flowers (that is, those that bloom at night) are distinguished by a pale color - white, cream or light pink. Daytime - can have almost any color. The exceptions are blue and black.

The main varieties and their names

All cacti can be conditionally divided into groups:

• Room;
• Forest;
• Desert.

Indoor

Indoor cacti are called cacti that adapt to home growing conditions.

To the room can be attributed:

• Notocactus otto;
• Small-haired prickly pear;
• Rebutia.

These species get along well in indoor conditions and bloom with proper care for them. Some may bloom in the first year of life, for example, some Mammillaria.

One of the most popular cacti that is grown at home is Euphorbia. This is an ornamental culture, which is distinguished not only by its original appearance, but also by the poisonous milky juice that is contained inside the stems and leaves.

Forest

The most popular representatives of forest crops include:

• Decembrist;
• Ripsalidopsis.

Decembrist and ripsadolipsis are similar in appearance. However, the petals of ripsalidopsis grow straight, not folded back. Coloring is red.

Epiphyllum has a not very neat shape. The specific epiphyllum is remarkable for flowers of red shades. However, many varieties with a variety of colors have been bred.

Decembrist different flowering in winter. This is a very common variety. It blooms with white, pink, purple and red flowers.

Also included in the forest:

1. . It has round shape stem, blooms with a single white flower;
2. . It is remarkable not only for orange flowers, but also for edible fruits. Some of them have a pleasant taste and useful properties;

Desert

The species of desert spiny should include:

• Mammillaria;
• Rebutia.

Most representatives bloom indoors beautiful flowers . Some of them have the ability to bloom in the first year of life.

Determination of the type by external qualities

Growing a cactus but don't know what it's called? You can determine the variety by its external data.

blooming

All cacti bloom, but not all can bloom at home. Wherein flowering varies by variety.

They bloom mostly in small flowers. Possible colors: yellow and pink. There are several flowers, they may not open at the same time, but alternately.

Has many varieties. So flower colors are varied: white, yellow, red, hot pink. Blooms with numerous flowers.

Notable for the fact that only one flower blooms. However, it is large and yellow in color.

Decembrist or Schlumberer

Notable for the fact that blooms in winter time . They call it a Decembrist because it blooms on New Year's Eve. Flowering is large and has a red color.

cacti with leaves

In general, all representatives have leaves. However, they are represented by thorns. If we talk about cacti, which really there are leaves familiar to everyone, then you can call Pachypodium.

prickly pear have leaves in the form of elongated cakes, on which spines are located.

Differs in large leaves of light green color with denticles along the edges.

Long

Cereus are considered the highest. The height of some representatives reaches 20 meters. At home, of course, they do not reach such heights. But they could, if the ceilings of the apartments did not interfere with them. Cereus is distinguished not only by its height, but also by its excellent flowering, large white with a creamy tint. In addition, they have an incredible aroma.

Up to 2 meters in height Euphorbia can grow.

Cactus with long needles

Long needles can boast Echinocactus (Echinopsis white-flowered), Carnegia, some varieties of Mammillaria, Ferocactus. This is far from a complete list.

The spines of Echinocactus Gruzoni can reach a length of up to 5 cm.

Decorative

Most varieties are decorative. Both flowers and stems and leaves of this culture are decorative. Among the most commonly grown in the house are:

• Mammillaria(differ in beautiful flowering);
• Decembrist(distinguished by luxurious flowering in winter);
• (a type of milkweed, beautifully blooms with large flowers);
• spurge(all types of milkweed differ not only decorative properties, but also curative);
• (a very original representative with long leaves);
• (decorative with long shoots and large flowers);
• (culture with an original spherical stem with one large snow-white flower).

fluffy

Espostow called fluffy cactus. This is a culture of Perunian origin. This species is called fluffy because of the hairs that play a protective function. The height of this culture in room conditions does not exceed 70 cm, in natural conditions it can grow up to 5 meters.

The plant was nicknamed the "Peruvian old man" for the hairs that appear gray.

non-thorny cactus

to the cacti that do not have spines, include some types of Ariocarpus. This is an original culture with an unusual stem and a large single flower. It can also be attributed astrophytum Asterias. This type it has a beautiful and very large single flower in the form of a chamomile, which is located on the top of the stem.

Thus, in nature there is a huge variety of different cultures. All cacti differ in height, flowering, needles. Everyone can choose a plant to their liking. Cactus - the original culture with the most incredible flowering. What could be more interesting than a blooming cactus?

Cacti still occupy a worthy place in the collections of many flower growers and are considered one of the most unusual plants. To decide on the choice of original succulents for growing, we suggest that you first see what types of cacti are and their photos with names.

Brief description and types of cacti

The homeland of these exotic plants is America, although in nature they can be found in the desert zones of Africa, Asia and even Europe. wild cacti usually have big sizes. They grow in the sultry regions of the planet, are widespread in Argentina, Mexico and Chile. Some varieties of cacti grow in the tropics, as well as in the coastal zone of the Mediterranean and Black Seas.

amaze natural conditions their growth, which are very common for cacti:

1. Many species grow in desert regions with low humidity. Although there are varieties that prefer wet areas, therefore they live exclusively in the tropics.
2. Cacti are adapted to sudden temperature changes, which in deserts sometimes reach up to 50 ° C.
3. Most often, plants live on loose gravel and sandy soils, with a low content of humus, but with a large amount of minerals.

Cacti have an unusual structure - a fleshy stem and a dense skin. This feature contributes to the adaptation of the plant to a moisture deficit. To prevent its loss, cacti have specific protective properties:

• spines instead of leaves;
• hairline, which shade the plant from the scorching sun;
• wax coating protects against moisture evaporation;
• ribbed stem, along the grooves of which morning dew flows to the roots;
• long roots are protected from drying out.

To make up for the lack of leaves, cacti have thickened, fleshy stems. Most of them are spherical, so they absorb light in about the same amount as the leaves. Some cacti have ribs that provide some shade from the sun.

A fleshy plant saturated with water is an excellent prey for desert animals. To protect themselves from them, an ordinary cactus has thorns. In some species, they are a natural cover from the sun's rays.

In appearance, cacti are divided into the following groups:

• shrubs;
• treelike;
• herbaceous;
• liana-shaped.

We suggest that you familiarize yourself with the most common types of cacti among flower growers in the photo with the names.

Desert and forest cacti

Depending on the place of growth, 2 main groups of cacti are distinguished: desert and forest (tropical).

In nature, desert cacti grow in hot desert or semi-desert zones of America and Africa. They are characterized by a high degree of adaptation to environmental conditions, have massive shoots and elongated, strong spines.

Desert cacti can be divided into three types:

At home, in the period October - March, it is better not to water desert cacti at all. They need constant sunlight, otherwise they will not bloom. Therefore, it is better to place plants on the southern windows.

Below are the most popular types of cacti in the photo and their names in Russian.

Most cacti are residents of purely arid regions of deserts and semi-deserts. But there are species that grow in tropical humid regions. The natural habitat of forest cacti is the tropical zones of South America, Africa and Australia.

Being located on trees, they are supplied with organic decompositions. And on the rocks, roots cling to stone ledges and are content with a small fraction of humus. Almost all tropical cacti are characterized by an ampelous shape and long, leaf-like, hanging stems. Instead of the usual spines, they have fine hairs.

At home, during the cold winter period, limited watering is recommended for forest cacti. And in the hot summer they need obligatory shading. It is best to place them on the east or north windows.

Home blooming cacti

Approximately half of all varieties of flowering cacti can be expected to bloom when they reach 3-4 years. In the future, they are able to annually delight those around them with their flowers. Most cacti bloom in spring. But you can successfully pick up several species, the flowers of which will decorate the interior throughout the year.

Unusual flowers that bloom in some types of cacti are shown in the photo with the names.

In order for the cactus to bloom faster, it needs to create the most natural conditions. Most often, flowers appear only on a new growth. And for its appearance, the cactus needs appropriate care in the summer and peace in the winter.

1. It is necessary to take care of the plants very carefully, because even one damaged thorn can significantly reduce the possibility of flowering.
2. AT autumn period it is necessary to reduce the amount of watering, and closer to winter they should be completely stopped. You can start watering only in March, first spraying the cacti with water.
3. In winter, it is worth keeping the plants in a cool room with subdued lighting.
4. When buds are born, cacti cannot be transplanted and fertilized, otherwise there is a chance of being left without flowering.

Growing a cactus in a cramped pot speeds up its flowering. At the same time, it is advisable not to turn it to the sun in different directions, otherwise it will lose the chance to bloom.

Types of flowering cacti with photos and names

cactus mammillaria has a spherical stem, green with a bluish tint, up to 25 cm high. feature are white thin threads that bind long spines.
Pink or lilac flowers are placed on top of the cactus. Often its flowering resembles a wreath of flowers.

prickly pear cactus has flat shoots covered with sharp spines. Therefore, when caring for the plant, you need to be very careful. Its spines easily break off and get stuck in human skin. In summer, prickly pear blooms with orange large flowers. Fruits can be tied, from which various dishes are prepared in America. Opuntia grows in very diverse natural conditions: in tropical and coniferous forests, deserts and semi-deserts, savannas, on the coasts of the seas.

peyote cactus from the genus Lofofora of small size, gray-green color, without spines. It grows naturally in Mexico and some US states. Favorite habitat is fine gravel. The top of the cactus resembles flattened molars, and Bottom part stem is underground. Flowers appear at the top, white or color pink. The fruits are elongated red berries, formed throughout the summer.

Peyote cultivation in Russia has been prohibited by law since 2004 due to the hallucinogenic substance mescaline, which is contained in the pulp of the plant stems.

Cereus cactus- This is the pride of many flower growers. The columnar stem with thick protruding ribs sometimes has a height of up to 1 m. There are long and sharp spines on the ribs. In summer, Cereus begins to bloom. Some of its species have flowers up to 15 cm in length. Interestingly, the flowering of different varieties of Cereus is not the same. Some varieties bloom during the day, while others bloom at night.

Echinopsis cactus translated from Greek means like-like. The plant is distinguished by a green spherical stem with powerful ribs and short spines. In the future, the stem may become cylindrical. Large funnel-shaped flowers can have a diameter of up to 20 cm, are white, red or pink. They begin to bloom in the evening, and by midnight their delicate fragrance becomes very strong. Flowering begins in spring and ends in autumn. The flowers stay on the stem for 2-3 days.

Cactus Gymnocalycium translated from Greek as a naked cup. A cactus of a spherical shape, which is characterized by apical flowers with a long tube without hairs and spines.
There is no chlorophyll in its stems, so they are yellow, red, pink. On the ribbed surface there are transverse tubercles. The cactus begins to bloom relatively early, at 3-4 years of age.

Separately, it is worth mentioning the Euphorbia succulent from the Euphorbia family, which is also called the Euphorbia cactus. This is a shrub with small leaves and bright original inflorescences. If you properly care for the plant, about 25-30 inflorescences can bloom on it at the same time. In nature, Euphorbia is distributed on all continents. In Russia, it can be seen along river banks, near roads and in fields.

Euphorbia contains poisonous milky juice. It can cause burns to the skin and mucous membranes, as well as a violation of the functions of the digestive tract if it enters the stomach.

Euphorbia is unpretentious to the conditions of detention, during the whole time it has a decorative appearance. In winter, the plant should be placed in a cool room and not watered to prevent root rot.

Ten most beautiful cacti - video

Comfort in the house is created by beautiful things, furniture, paintings and other accessories. But flowers grown in pots give a special zest to any room. Today you can buy almost any plant, even the most outlandish. All kinds of cacti have been very popular lately. They look especially exotic when they begin to bloom. As part of this publication, a flat cactus and its species will be considered.

general description

To begin with, it is worth determining the name of a flat cactus. It belongs to the genus Opuntia, which has about three hundred species. This plant is common in vast areas of South and North America. The main place of concentration of prickly pear is Mexico. About half of the species can be found there. Also, these cacti have spread as invasive plants in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. They are the most tenacious and unpretentious, so they can grow almost anywhere.

Prickly pear have dark green, succulent, flat, leaf-shaped and jointed stems that resemble cakes. Their cladodia are quite thick, palm-sized, obovate or oblong, and grow out of each other. Sometimes flattened stems are mistaken for ordinary leaves. On young segments in the areoles, rudimentary leaves pressed to the surface can be seen. After a while they just fall off. The leaves themselves are bright green, small, subulate and juicy. In nature, prickly pear can reach a height of 6 meters. At home, they usually do not grow more than 60 centimeters.

Within the framework of this article, it is impossible to consider all types of flat cacti. Therefore, only some of them will be described.

common prickly pear

This tree-like cactus native to Mexico grows to a height of 4-6 meters. From April to September, it reveals yellow, pretty large flowers. The segments are colored light green. They have areoles with yellowish glochidia and gray pubescence. Some grow from one to four strong spines. On young segments in the areoles there are rudimentary leaves that are pressed to the surface of the segment, but then fall off.

Common prickly pear is often used to decorate lobbies, halls, terraces, balconies and winter gardens. The optimum temperature for keeping is considered to be 8-10 degrees Celsius. But this species can tolerate up to minus 5 degrees. To grow this cactus in a room, only young specimens should be taken so that they can take root.

white-haired prickly pear

The flat cactus got its name because of the very long and snow-white spines. They are quite large and sharp. They are evenly strewn with the entire surface of the stems. During flowering, large yellow inflorescences open. Inside them you can see a greenish stigma. It is worth noting that the fruits of this prickly pear are tasty and healthy, so they are eaten.

The homeland of this species is Mexico, where it grows everywhere. Under natural conditions, the white-haired cactus branches magnificently and reaches 4-5 meters. Indoors, this plant is not particularly torn in height. Its segments will be large, but only about 20 centimeters.

Aciculata

On almost every corner of arid, hot Mexico, another flat cactus grows. He has several names. "Atsikulata", "Chenil Spiky Hat", "Old Cowboy's Mustache". The names appeared because of the numerous glochidia up to 1 centimeter long, with which the surface of the flattened rounded stems is dotted. They themselves are painted greenish, and sometimes gray or even bluish.

Any gardener will appreciate the flowers of this species. They are quite large (10 centimeters in diameter), have a yellow, orange or deep red hue. The fruits, as in the case of the white-haired prickly pear, are also edible. The shape resembles a pear, only covered with small spines.

Long-awned (long-thorned) prickly pear

This is a bushy cactus with flat leaves that tend to "lie down" on the surface. The segments are small, slightly flattened, club-shaped and spherical. They form chains and reach a length of 3-4 centimeters. Areoles are brown, have bunches of reddish glochidia, many scarlet marginal spines and one long thin central one. Long-spiked prickly pear flowers open wide. Usually colored red or

small-haired prickly pear

This species was first described by the German botanist and scientist Johann Lehmann back in the 20s of the 19th century, when he was researching Mexican nature in the state of Hidalgo.

This plant looks like erect shoots with a variety of leaf-cakes, which are covered with the smallest snow-white or brown glochidia. Such a cactus does not have real thorns, but it is still unpleasant to touch it. Moreover, it will be difficult to pull out the ingrained glochidia from the skin. Grows up to 1 meter in height. What this flat cactus looks like, the photo below demonstrates in full.

This species is used to create various compositions and arrangements, or simply planted in a pot on a windowsill facing south or southwest. It is best to propagate these cacti in greenhouses, because only there you can create optimal conditions. If they are observed, from five to twenty large buds of saturated lemon color may appear on one segment. By the way, flowering in apartment conditions is not so easy to achieve.

Small-haired prickly pear can be propagated in spring and summer using cuttings. They are rooted in the sand at a positive air temperature of 20-22 degrees. As a soil, a mixture of sand, peat, humus, hardwood and sod land will be optimal. Everything is taken in equal proportions. Humidity should be low. But as the cactus grows, watering needs to be increased, and in winter it should be limited again. Feed enough once every 2-3 weeks during spring and summer mineral fertilizer. In summer, the plant needs bright lighting, so during this period it is better to transfer the prickly pear to the open air. The temperature should be within 10-28 degrees of heat, and in winter - about 8-12 degrees.

Opuntia Bergera

In nature, such a flat cactus prefers stony soils and reaches 2-3 meters. But in apartment conditions, it will be no higher than 60 centimeters. The segments of the segments are irregularly shaped and covered with sparse areolas. From them grow rather rigid spines and glochidia, characteristic of this family. During flowering, Bergera has beautiful and bright buds of scarlet or red-orange color. Fruits are also available, edible and even useful, but at home, as a rule, they do not grow.

This is a great variety for home growing. He is preferred by those who dream of an exotic four-meter plant on their site. The trunk has a bushy appearance. From it come flattened stems-plates of a somewhat elongated or oval shape. The glochidia of this cactus are translucent, slightly yellowish, which makes them even more extraordinary.

It is noteworthy that prickly pear blooms profusely without any effort, even in an apartment. There are a lot of buds on each segment, at least 3-5 pieces. They are small, but very beautiful, bright yellow, which is very clearly visible in the photo above. The flat cactus of this species also has purple or brownish fruits. They are quite edible, tasting more sweet than sour.

Opuntia Subulata

This cactus, originally from Peru, stands out among other members of the family with its appearance. It has a cylindrical stem, which is typical for succulents. It has almost imperceptible small and flat tubercles. The leaves are also cylindrical, green, up to 10 centimeters long. Yellow large and hard needle-shaped spines are framed by white glochidia. The cactus itself grows very quickly and can reach 2 meters in height. But in an apartment, it usually does not exceed 50 centimeters.

Subulata blooms no more than once a year. During this period, rather large (5-8 centimeters in diameter) reddish or yellow-scarlet buds are formed. In order for them to have a rich color, the plant needs to provide good sunlight. It must be kept at a positive temperature of 10-15 degrees. But prickly pear can feel good even when the thermometer shows +5. propagate this species. better cuttings. They are planted either in greenhouses or in pots and placed on windowsills that face the sunny side.

grassroots prickly pear

There are also other names for this flat cactus. It is referred to in the literature as the main or main prickly pear. The species was found in the southwestern United States, so these areas are considered its homeland. These cacti grow in abundance in Anza Borrego, Colorado, and the Mojave Desert.

The lower prickly pear grows up to one meter in height. It has small fleshy stems-segments, which are covered with spines and glochidia. This cactus is easy to recognize in the spring and summer, when beautiful pink inflorescences begin to appear. When they fall off, fruits form on the stems. They are quite tasty and healthy, so they are used as food. The Indians used all parts of the plant (segments, buds and seeds).

Opuntia gosselina

This long flat cactus is also called purple because of the characteristic color of the young shoots. Homeland is Mexico and the USA. This species is found everywhere.

Mature leaves also attract attention due to their blue-green color and beautiful gray tint. The spines grow up to 10 centimeters, but are quite soft to the touch. They are located only in the upper part of the stems. In nature mature plant reaches a height of one meter. But at home, achieving such growth is extremely difficult. This cactus blooms quite early. The buds are red, but more often - bright yellow. Regardless of the color, they are unusually beautiful. Inflorescences eventually turn into edible fruit which have a pleasant taste and aroma.

Fig (Indian) prickly pear

This species is specially cultivated by many inhabitants of Mexico in order to eat its fruits. They are tasty, healthy and unusually sweet. They resemble a pear in shape and are covered with thorns, which do not in the least interfere with the use of fruits for food. Also, fig prickly pear in a wild state is found everywhere on the southern coast of Crimea. There she concentrates in small groups.

This species is a cactus with long, flat leaves that have rather fleshy segments, like succulents. The stems branch noticeably, forming a wide bush. AT natural environment it reaches a height of 3-4 meters. The stems are covered with thorns, and yellow buds form at the top. After flowering, they turn into green, yellow or red fruits. They are shaped like a pear and reach a length of 5-8 centimeters. Inside the fruit are quite large seeds and translucent whitish flesh. After removing the peel with thorns, you can cook fruit salads or cook compotes, jams and jams from it.

This type of prickly pear is great for creating hedges. But it can also be grown indoors. In summer, the cactus needs intense sunlight. Therefore, during this period it is recommended to keep it outdoors. In winter, a cool room is more suitable. But also in warm room you can leave the plant, because it tolerates air well, dried heating appliances.

Kurasava prickly pear

This is a bushy flat cactus with hanging leaves-stems. The segments are light green, narrow and long (up to 2-5 centimeters). Areoles are small, woolly, have from four light spines. They easily break off even with a careful touch, which leads to easy and rapid reproduction of the plant. The birthplace of this prickly pear is the island of Curacao and all the nearest islands located north of Venezuela.

This is another species that can be classified as a domestic flat cactus. It is a bushy, upright, low plant that consists of noticeably branched stems. Prickly pear differs in that the lobes are not flattened, but rounded. Segments do not exceed 2-3 centimeters in length. The segments are brittle and fall off easily, which is why the cactus got its name. Areoles small, with very short white spines. During flowering, pale yellow buds with green stigmas are formed.

prickly pear

This species deservedly got its name. The flat-leaved cactus has fairly impressive shoots. Their diameter varies between 30-50 centimeters. In general, the plant is a tree-like cactus with rounded and thick shoots, which are dotted with a grayish coating. The areoles of this prickly pear are sparse, with yellowish or white spines. During flowering, interesting buds appear, which are bright red on the outside and rich yellow on the inside. The homeland of the species is Argentina.

Mighty prickly pear can be propagated by seeds and cuttings. The first method is used in the spring, extracting grains from the fruits. Cuttings need to be cut in the summer so that rooting has already taken place by autumn, and the cactus can survive the winter well.

So, the publication considered several types of prickly pear - a flat cactus. Of course, this is just the tip of a giant iceberg, as there are many more. These varieties are very similar in appearance, but still have their own distinctive features. Sometimes it is only possible to determine the type experienced specialist who understands such a large family of prickly pear.

There are many unusual plants in indoor floriculture, the most common of them are cacti (species, photos with names will be given in the article below).

These plants, after being discovered on the American continent, have become incredibly popular as a pot culture.

General description and origin

It is traditionally believed that plants from the Cactus family have a fleshy succulent stem and leaves that are transformed into spines. In 80% of cases it is.

Growing in the arid lands of South and North America, which are the birthplace of cacti, plants have acquired special adaptations. They not only allow you to store water, but also spend it very economically. Such opportunities made it possible to attribute almost all species to succulent plants.

Most often, these thorny plants can be found in deserts, semi-deserts, savannahs, arid forests and alpine meadows at an altitude of up to 4 thousand meters above sea level.

Harsh conditions with a lack of moisture, large differences in night and day temperatures help plants survive:

• fleshy stems;
• the presence of grooves allows moisture to roll down to the roots;
• dense and thick skin;
• wax coating on it;
• the presence of spines.

After the discovery of America and the Caribbean, the plant appeared on the Eurasian continent. Later, with the help of man, cacti were settled everywhere. The only exception was icy Antarctica.

The classification of cacti in the first half of the 18th century was carried out by Carl Linnaeus, from which the family was named Cactus. Four subfamilies have now been identified:

• cactus;
• prickly pear;
• Pereskievye;
• Mauhienivye.

It is important to know: the subfamily Pereskaceae consists of one genus, represented by leafy shrubs with non-succulent shoots.

Despite the fact that among the cacti there are real giants weighing hundreds of kg and tiny babies no more than 2 cm in diameter, these plants have become the object of indoor floriculture since the end of the 16th century.

Types and names, description of characteristic features

From the whole variety of indoor cacti that are grown as a pot culture, we will choose the most popular:

• Mammillaria- differ from other species by the presence of numerous papillae, on the tops of which there are needles, despite the fact that among mammillaria there are very rare and difficult to breed, most of them are easy to care for, bloom early.

Mammillaria

Among mammillaria the most common are:

• M. Wilda;
• M. Tselman;
• M. Blossfeld;
• M. Boksana;
• M. Parkinson.
• Prickly pear or eared cactus with a flat stem, consisting of oval segments, prickly pear covered with glochidia with sharp spines, they are capable of flowering, the fruits of this plant are edible.

Often grown white-haired, fig, small-haired prickly pear.

• Rebutia- medium-sized cacti, spherical stems up to 5 cm in diameter, with a recess at the top, somewhat similar to mammillaria, differ in the lower arrangement of flowers.

Common:

• R. tiny;
• R. sunny;
• R. pulvinosis.

• Cereus- have elongated cylindrical stems with pronounced ribbing, the color is gray-green, the spines are light or dark, there are species with day and night flowering, the flowers are large, funnel-shaped, even among cacti they are unpretentious and fast growing, there is a branched monstrous form.

The following cereuses are common:

• Peruvian;
• yamakaru;
• repandus.

• Notocactus or Parody- differ in spherical stems and regular periodic flowering, spines are collected in groups from 1 to 6, flowers of delicate shades.

Notocactus

Most often grown:

• N. Yubelman;
• N. Otto.
• Astrophytums or star-shaped cacti are characterized by low stems, when viewed from above, some species resemble a star, are distinguished by slow growth and the absence of well-defined spines in some varieties.

note: the taxonomy of cacti is constantly changing, acquiring a plant, it is advisable to know its name exactly, this will facilitate care and help avoid mistakes.

Astrophytums speckled, ibexes are widespread.

Features of care

Many people mistakenly believe that cacti are among those indoor plants that do not need care. This is not entirely true. Nature has taken care of cacti, but the supply of their vitality is not infinite.

The peculiarity of these plants is that care for them in the summer months is different from winter care.

From the second half of March, when the illumination improves, the cacti need to be transferred to the summer watering regime.. Start it with regular spraying of plants twice a day. The procedure is carried out for 7-8 days. Warmed soft settled water is suitable for spraying.

After that, you can start watering. It is advisable to carry them out in the morning with a good sunlight.

The frequency of summer watering depends on several conditions. Approximately cacti need to be watered every 6-7 days. Watering is conveniently carried out using a watering can with a long narrow spout. These plants respond very well to being placed outdoors in the summer and even planted in the garden.

As soon as daytime temperatures drop to 15 degrees in autumn, plants need to be transferred to winter mode.

At the end of September, watering is made more rare and after three to four weeks they are completely stopped. In winter, the frequency of watering is reduced to 1 watering in 25 - 28 days.

In winter, it is desirable to keep cacti at a temperature of + 15 degrees in good sunlight. Such conditions can be created if you put the pots on the windowsills, but without touching the stems of cold glasses.

Take note: not in this group shade-loving plants, there is . Therefore, windows with a south, southwest or southeast orientation are suitable for them.

For cacti, light earth with a good content of minerals and with a slightly acidic reaction is suitable. For prickly species it is useful to add crushed eggshell, and for abundantly and often blooming, the addition of humus will help.

The issue of top dressing remains controversial. In order not to harm the plants, you can use reduced doses of ready-made fertilizers for succulents. The frequency of top dressing is once every two weeks, the time of application is from March to August.

Breeding

Breeding cacti at home is most convenient vegetatively. A lot of cacti give so-called babies.

A baby 2-2.5 cm in size is carefully separated from the mother plant and dropped into wet sand with the lower part. To prevent the soil from drying out quickly, a transparent bag must be put on the pot.

As needed, the soil should be sprayed. Usually after 6-7 days, root formation begins. when the roots grow by 0.5 - 0.7 mm, the baby can be transplanted into a permanent pot.

Prickly pear can be propagated by cuttings, separating them in a narrow place. The stalk must be dried in the air for two days, and then do the same as with the baby.

There are cacti that do not give children. In this case, they can be propagated by seeds. It is most convenient to buy seeds in a special store or get them from private collections. Reproduction by seeds is a painstaking process. It is important to use absolutely sterile substrate, bowls and other material. Seedlings of young cacti are very often affected by fungi and die.

Germination of seeds is carried out at a daytime temperature of + 25 + 26 degrees and at + 18 + 20 degrees at night. To do this, it is convenient to use a small greenhouse. Sowing is carried out superficially, lightly covering the seeds with earth. After the emergence of seedlings, the seedlings should be kept in a lit place, watered by spraying, so that there are no large splashes, but a fine water mist is formed. Twice a day, young plants need to be removed from the greenhouse and ventilated.

Advice: Lower heating of the greenhouse will help accelerate germination. You can use heat pads for this.

After the seedlings have reached a size of 15 - 20 mm, they can be transplanted into permanent pots. We will try to tell you how to properly transplant a young or adult "thorn".

Transfer

A transplant for domestic cacti is indicated in case of full development of the entire volume of the pot and if the cactus looks unhealthy, does not bloom, the stem and spines are deformed. You can transplant a cactus at any time, but it is best to plan this event at the beginning of the summer period.

For transplanting, you will need soil, drainage material and a pot. All this must be sterile. The soil can be used ready-made or made up of equal parts of soddy soil, sand, peat and calcined in the oven.

The transplanted plant is carefully removed from the old pot and, trying not to damage the roots and the ground part, shake off the old soil. If the earth lump is too hard and dense, it will have to be soaked in warm water.

Keep in mind: Washed roots need about 10 hours to air dry.

Drainage is covered with the first layer and covered with half of the soil. Set the cactus so that the root collar is at the level of the upper edge of the pot. The rest of the soil must be evenly added on all sides. The soil is lightly compacted. Large specimens need to install additional support for a period of 4-5 weeks. The transplanted plant is left for 7-8 days without watering.

Diseases and pests

Of the pests, domestic succulents are most often affected by mealybugs. On the surface of the stems appear whitish lumps similar to cotton wool or felt.

The stems begin to turn pale and decrease, if measures are not taken, the plant dies. Actara or confidor preparations help from worms. They are bred according to the instructions and watered the plants.

The next dangerous pest is the scale insect. Since it is very difficult to notice it, sometimes time is lost. All adults must be removed with cotton swabs, and the plant should be watered with a solution of actara.

If homemade thorns are affected by mites, then only acaricidal preparations will help, for example, actellik or.

The main causative agents of cactus diseases are microscopic fungi that cause various rots. It could be:

• fusarium;
• rhizoctoniosis;
• helminthosporiasis.

Control measures include the removal of diseased underground and ground tissues, disinfection of wound surfaces and treatment with fungicides.

gardener's advice: up to 90% of the disease is caused by errors in cultivation and maintenance.

Sometimes flower growers are worried about the long absence of flowering.

How to make it bloom

In order for the cactus to bloom, it definitely needs to arrange a cold winter period. Sometimes, a young plant must first survive at least three to five winters. Perhaps lowering the temperature in winter to + 10 will give the desired result.

If the pot with the plant is standing all year round in a poorly lit place, then you need to rearrange the plant to good light and, if necessary, arrange additional lighting.

Sometimes a plant transplant helps.

Many flower growers advise ruthlessly removing all children from those species that form them in large numbers.

Cacti are exactly those plants that help to realize the most unusual plans in interior design. These low maintenance plants will bright accent any room.

About the types of cacti, see the following video:

It is unlikely that it will be possible to describe the types of cacti that exist in the world in one article. Therefore, it was decided to present only the most popular types of domestic cacti that grow in literally all regions of our country. Well, the fans, of course. All the proposed types and names of domestic cacti can be easily found in specialized reference books, but information grouped on one page will be easier to use. The most common types of indoor cacti are combined into different genera, or groups with similar species characteristics. They require the same for themselves, which simplifies the process. See the types of cacti you are interested in and their names, study the assortment of the group and choose the plants that are suitable for you. If there are some types of indoor cacti, the names and descriptions of which cannot be found in this article, then write to us and we will prepare an addition. But we are sure that the vast majority of types of succulents that are grown at home are collected here. Look at the types of cacti in the photo and start an exciting journey into the exciting world of these unusual plants:

What are the types of cacti: names with descriptions and photos

It is important to understand what types of cacti are in order to be able to make a full choice. Further, from the huge variety of species and varieties, readers will be presented with some particularly attractive types of cacti with names, descriptions and photos that will help you get to know this culture better:

Cactus hobbyists have different points of view as to which cacti are the most beautiful. Here will be mentioned mainly well-established cacti in culture, which can be offered for small amateur collections grown on windowsills or in greenhouses in the garden, and which are commercially available in horticultural farms and flower shops. Look at some types of indoor cacti in the photo, which shows some pretty amazing specimens:

Knowing cacti well is not an easy thing, because of the more than 2000 species that exist most of currently cultivated by hobbyists. Without flowers, even a specialist cannot correctly identify many cacti. However, for some genera there are good distinguishing characters, which will be specially mentioned when describing cacti. When describing cactus species, distinguishing features will also be given, if possible, but if there are a large number of species, they are far from always enough to correctly identify the plant. It is impossible to determine the type of cactus by the number of spines. (Just the number of spines often varies significantly.) Unfortunately, cacti sold in stores are often incorrectly called or offered under different names, but this circumstance should in no case be a reason for refusing to grow such plants. “Unknown” cacti can also bring a lot of joy. Be sure to look at the photo for the description of cactus species, where you can see all the botanical characteristics:

Aporocactus - forest species of cacti

A characteristic feature of forest cactus species are thin, long, drooping shoots with 7-12 ribs. Large, red, blooming flowers during the day distinguish them from all other cacti with creeping shoots. The few types of cacti with leaves are very difficult to distinguish from each other.

Aporocactus flagelliformis.

Whip aporocactus, snake cactus, rat tail cactus. Slightly two-sided symmetrical (zygomorphic) flowers are similar to the flowers of "Christmas" cacti (Schlumbergera). This type of aporocactus has been known in Germany as a cultivated plant for over 300 years. As its many vernacular names indicate, this plant has been of interest to plant lovers for a very long time. Among hardy plants grown on balconies and in window flower boxes, you can often find old and profusely flowering specimens of aporocactus. In the tropics, this plant is also very widespread by humans, so it is now difficult to establish its original homeland, which is presumably located in the Mexican state of Hidalgo. There, aporocactus grows hanging from trees or - in areas with higher air humidity - from rocks.

In culture, it is necessary to take into account the semi-epiphytic lifestyle of this cactus. Therefore, a well-permeable substrate is chosen for plants, consisting of cactus soil mixed with perlite, sand, and possibly with the addition of a small amount of sphagnum.

Aporocactus flagelliformis overwinters at a temperature of 6-8°C; however, plants tolerate lower temperatures for a short time. Wintering in a bright place stimulates the laying of flower buds in this spring-blooming cactus. Thanks to its drooping shoots, Aporocactus flagelliformis can be successfully grown as an ampelous plant. In the warm season, the cactus is kept in a bright, but shaded place from direct sunlight. Aporocactus can be taken outside in the summer and hung in the light shade of trees, so that the scorching sun's rays do not fall on the plant during the hot midday hours. Aporocactus is considered to be particularly susceptible to spider mite damage, so it is very important to harden it in the fresh air when cultivating.

Aporocactus hybr.

Cacti often succeed in crossing species with completely different forms of growth. A good example of this is the beautiful hybrid aporocactus. Already in 1830, the English horticulturist Mallison crossed A. flagelliformis with a vertically growing heliocereus (Heliocereus). The result was an intergeneric hybrid with bright red flowers 10-15 cm in diameter, known as Aporocactus mallisoni.

In the fifties, the German breeder from Nuremberg, Greser, managed to obtain an intergeneric hybrid between A. flagelliformis and Trichocereus candicans that attracted everyone's attention.

Recently, work on the hybridization of aporocactus is carried out primarily in the UK, where they are crossed with hybrid phyllocactus (Epiphyllum hybr.). As a result, both smaller and larger plants were obtained with drooping or arching shoots and very beautiful flowers of various - so far there is no only pure yellow - color. Look at these types of home cacti in the photo - the names and descriptions will help to distinguish plant varieties:

Types of flowering cacti with names and photos

Astrophytums are types of flowering cacti with amazingly beautiful buds. Various types of astrophytums stand out among other cacti with a few ribs and white felt specks on the surface of the stems, bringing a touch of a kind of exotic to the collection of cacti. They come from hot and dry regions of Mexico and Texas. Perfect for growing in very sunny and warm southern windows. A well-permeable mineral substrate, moderate moisture and dry wintering at a temperature of about 8 ° C are recommended. Large seeds germinate easily and quickly. Look at the flowering types of cacti in the photo with the names, where you can see the most beautiful specimens of this genus:

Astrophytum capricornus ( Astrophytum capricorne).

The species is characterized by matted, long, brown spines and large yellow flowers with a red throat. Tolerates lower winter temperatures than other astrophytums.

Astrophytum speckled, "bishop's miter" ( Astrophytum myriostigma).

"Bishop's Miter" is one of the few cacti completely devoid of thorns. There are forms with and without white felt flecks, as well as with a different number of ribs; interesting looking square plants with four ribs. Relatively small plants can bloom.

Astrophytum decorated ( Astrophytum ornatum).

Compared to Astrophytum capricorne, in this species, the felt specks are most often arranged in the form of stripes, and the spines are straight. In its homeland, Astrophytum ornatum reaches a height of 1 m. Plants bloom only in adulthood. Felt specks arranged in stripes and yellow-brown spines give this cactus a special decorative effect.

Astrophytum hybr.

Back in the 19th century, Abbe Beguin received the first Astrophytum hybrid. Crossing various types of astrophytums made it possible to obtain many more or less speckled and prickly plants with varying degrees of ribs.

Browningia ( Browningia hertlingiana).

Due to the beautiful blue waxy coating on the stems, young specimens of this large South American columnar cactus can be found in hobbyist collections. A blue wax coating is formed on the stems only when the content is warm and light, and only in cacti with a height of at least 10-15 cm. It is necessary to moderately water the plants and spray them with water. Look at these types of home cacti in the photo, from which majestic and amazing succulents look at us:

Cephalocereus - types of fluffy cacti

The only species of fluffy cacti is the senile cephalocereus (Cephalocereus senilis) from Mexico, characterized by long, hanging, silvery-white hairs that completely cover the stem of the plant.

Cephalocereus senile, "old man's head" ( Cephalocereus senilis).

Due to its typical white hairy pubescence, young specimens of this large columnar cactus are often kept by hobbyists in their collections. Cephalocereus must be kept in a bright and warm place in a well-permeable substrate and watered very sparingly.

Cereus Peruvian ( Cereus peruvianus).

Sometimes in large greenhouses, and in the Mediterranean in botanical gardens or gardens at hotels, you can see tall, up to 4 m tall, columns of cereus, which bloom profusely there with large, yellowish-white, hairless flowers. If we do not take into account seedlings grown from mixtures of seeds, then we cultivate a predominantly ugly form of the Peruvian cereus. At the beginning of the century, the Peruvian cereus was present in almost every collection of cacti, but today this cactus is not often available for sale, although it grows well when the conditions are right for it. It is necessary to ensure that pests such as mealybugs do not settle in the folds and branches of the stem. Look at these types of cacti in the photo with the names, which show specimens grown at home:

Cleistocactus - rare species of large cacti

These columnar species of large cacti are distinguished by attractive spines. In some species, upon reaching a height of 20-40 cm, the plants begin to bloom profusely with flowers of interesting shape. Elongated, tubular, densely covered with scales on top, sometimes giving the impression of broken flowers, are adapted for pollination by hummingbirds. Plants must be kept in a bright place, however, shaded from direct sunlight in the midday hours. During the growth period, cleistocactus require abundant watering and regular fertilizing.

Cleistocactus Ritter ( Cleistocactus ritterii).

Thanks to its white spines and yellow-green flowers appearing abundantly in plants from 40 cm high between long, white hairs, a rare species of cactus is of interest and is cultivated with pleasure by amateurs.

Cleistocactus emerald ( Cleistocactus smaragdiflorus).

This species has red flowers with a green border. The plant begins to bloom when it reaches a height of about 25 cm. In winter, the cactus must be kept in conditions that are neither too cool nor too dry.

Cleistocactus Strauss ( Cleistocactus strausii).

These cacti, densely covered with white spines and hairs, are well known to hobbyists.

Coryphanthus - types of small cacti and succulents with pictures

These types of cacti and succulents in a non-flowering state are very difficult to distinguish from mammillaria. Only in flowering plants do typical papillae wrinkled above appear, from the axils of which flowers develop. This genus combines species of small cacti with powerful hard spines and large flowers. The main places where these cacti grow in natural conditions are Mexico and the southern states of the United States. Korifashy require sunny warm conditions in greenhouse conditions and do not grow well on the windowsill, but they develop well on a sunny flower window or in an appropriate greenhouse. Plants prefer somewhat larger than usual pots and a clay-containing soil substrate.

Coryphanthus start growing a little later than other cacti in spring, so watering should also start later. Flowers bloom in summer or early autumn. Plants are not watered in winter.

Some species form small daughter shoots ("babies"), the roots of which often develop on the mother plant. They can be easily separated and cultivated as individual plants. However, the ability to bloom appears only when plants reach a certain size. In this case, more woolly hairs or spines sometimes form at the apex, and typical wrinkles appear on the areola. Look at these types of cacti in the pictures, which show different flowering specimens:

Echinocereus

Cacti from the genus Echinocereus (Echinocereus) are especially popular among hobbyists due to their often beautiful, decorative spines. In addition, the large, prickly, most often green-stigmated flowers do not fade for many days. The cultivation conditions of Echinocereus vary in accordance with the area of ​​​​their distribution in natural conditions. All Echinocereus love warm and sunny conditions in winter. Some species grow very large, others grow well only in greenhouses.

However, there are also species that can be successfully grown in sunny windows or in a greenhouse. Separate types in the warm season they take it out into the street, placing it in a sunny place.

The substrate for Echinocereus should be predominantly mineral and contain a lot of weathered clay and coarse sand. Spring adults flowering plants it is necessary to start watering only after the flower buds become clearly visible, otherwise they stop their development. During the growing season in early summer, cacti are watered abundantly, the rest of the time, watering is rather moderate. In winter, plants should be kept dry and, if possible, in a bright place. When kept completely dry, some species, such as E. pectinatus, E. reichenbachii, E. triglochidiatus or E. viridiflorus, tolerate short light night frosts.

Echinocereus Knippel ( Echinocereus knippelianus).

This small Echinocereus, which has very flat ribs and often no spines at all, has a thick, turnip-like root and, when cultivated on its roots, requires special attention when watering. Plants are often sold grafted onto other cacti; in this case they grow faster and bloom profusely in early spring beautiful pink flowers. This practically thornless cactus must be very carefully accustomed to the sun in the spring, after which it also tolerates a sunny location.

Echinocereus comb ( Echinocereus pectinatus).

This species - at the same time being a representative of a whole group of closely related cacti - is popular with hobbyists for its comb-like spines, the color of which can sometimes vary in growth zones, and for its most often carmine-red flowers with a light or white-green center. These plants have a rather delicate root system, prefer a mineral substrate and love a lot of sun. They grow well mainly in greenhouses or a suitable greenhouse, however, plants grafted onto low rootstocks can also be grown on a southern windowsill or in a closed flower window facing south.

Echinofossulocactus

Cacti of this genus, characterized by thin wavy ribs, are easy to cultivate and very popular with cactus lovers. In their homeland in Mexico, Echinofossu locactus grow in dry steppes. Accordingly, in culture, they prefer a substrate containing more humus and a light, but shaded location from direct sunlight. Since the flowers appear in early spring, winter keeping in a bright place is recommended.

Echinofossulocactus curly ( Echinofossulocactus crispatus).

In Echinofossulocactus, it is very difficult to establish a boundary between individual species. Currently, a number of beautiful forms are grouped under the name Echinofossulocactus crispatus. It is very interesting to watch how white flowers with a wide light or dark purple stripe along the center of the petals make their way at the crown through a labyrinth of dense, long and sometimes widely flattened central spines.

Echinopsis

Like the related genera Trichocereus and Lobivia, Echinopsis flowers are distinguished by a clearly defined wreath of stamens emerging from the throat. Trichocereus grow columnar, in lobies the floral tube is usually shorter. Cacti of this genus have been known for a very long time, typical echinopsis with long white or pink funnel-shaped flowers are popular not only among cacti growers, but also among flower lovers in general. The name used - peasant cactus - came from the fact that in the window flower boxes of peasant houses one can see old and abundantly flowering specimens of this plant.

Echinopsis obrepanda.

Today, under this name, many slightly different forms are combined. The plants originate from the highlands and are very hardy, but in early spring they are quite susceptible to sunburn. The spines are stiff and bent towards the stem. Due to the turnip roots, it is recommended to use a substrate that is not very flat and well permeable. The flowers of the original species are white, but there are forms with flowers from pink and pale purple to dark red. Compared to the stem, the flowers are long and large and look beautifully shaped with their recurved narrow outer petals.

Espostoa

This impressive columnar cactus, which reaches its homeland, prefers even conditions and not very cool conditions in winter. In full splendor appears only when cultivated in a greenhouse. However, due to their beautiful white woolly hairs, the young plants of Espostoa are also grown by hobbyists in bright windows. Plants should not be sprayed with water, as otherwise an ugly limescale deposit may appear on the white hairs.

Eulychnia

This columnar cactus is also more suitable for cultivation in greenhouses, but young plants of Eulychnia with their decorative spines and sometimes white felt or shaggy hairy pubescence of areoles are also grown in small collections.

ferocactus

These cacti in their homeland often grow into huge balls. However, young plants attract hobbyists with their powerful, often beautifully colored, flattened or hooked central spines, which appear especially large in young plants. Recently, show specimens grown in floricultural farms in Tenerife with a diameter of 30 cm with beautifully developed spines, especially species such as Ferocactus latispinus and F. wislizenii, have begun to arrive in Germany. which are great for keeping in closed, south-facing) flower windows. Ferocactus love a lot of heat and sun. As mentioned above when describing Echinocactus grusonii (Echinocactus grusonii), the temperature in winter should not fall below 12 ° C, in addition, plants like to have “warm feet”.

Gymnocalycium

The vast majority of hymnocalyciums are easily recognizable by their tuberculate ribs, which have horizontal folds between the areoles. Flowers are also very typical, bearing large round and bare scales on the outside.

According to the extended area of ​​​​distribution in natural conditions, hymnocalyciums have different requirements in culture. However, most of them need a humus-containing, yet well-permeable soil mixture, which should be slightly acidic; hymnocalyciums are sensitive to an alkaline substrate.

Therefore, it is necessary to water these cacti with soft or slightly acidified water. Gymnocalyciums, which most often have few spines and therefore appear green, prefer a light, but not sunny location. Of the many cultivated species, hobbyists with limited opportunities to house a cactus collection prefer the remaining small Gymnocalyciums. The following species are suitable for growing in a window room.

Gymnocalycium Mikhanovich variety of Friedrich ( Gymnocalycium michanovichii var. Friedrichii Rubra).

With mass sowing of G. michanovichii var. friedrichii, some seedlings accidentally mutated. Chlorophyll was completely absent in their tissues, so that only a pure red color remained from the red-green color of the stem. Japanese flower growers took advantage of the opportunity presented to them and successfully grafted these seedlings onto the rootstock, since without their own chlorophyll they would not be viable. As a result of subsequent breeding work from them, forms with bright red, yellow and crimson color of the stem were obtained. All these forms do not have chlorophyll, so they can only be cultivated in a grafted state. Sometimes these plants even bloom. Since there is often a contradiction between the inherently slow growth of G. michanovichii and the fast growth of the rootstock, these plants are not particularly long-lived. Even maintenance with regular watering and a bright place, however, shaded from direct sunlight, is recommended.

Haageocereus

This columnar, as a rule, only in greenhouses. However, due to their attractive, sometimes fiery red, yellow or dark brown spines, young plants are also popular in small collections with hobbyists. Haageocereus prefer a well-permeable substrate and a warm, sunny location. After a short summer rest period, the plants resume growth in the fall, and therefore, unlike most other cacti, they need regular watering at this time. These cacti should winter at a temperature of 10-15 ° C.

Hildevinter

Hildewinter flowers with an inner circle of short light petals can hardly be confused with flowers of other cacti. Cactus growers blame this species for its golden-yellow spines densely covering the stems and plentiful. Thanks to its drooping shoots, this one is used as an ampelous plant.

Types of mamillaria cacti (with photo)

Mamillaria cacti are especially popular with cactus growers. Some hobbyists concentrate entirely on growing Mammillaria cactus species and have noteworthy collections of these plants. Mammillaria lovers in some countries have created special societies that publish their own newspapers. Mammillaria stand out from other cacti due to their mathematically precise arrangement of spines, which sometimes contrast effectively with the white hairy or woolly pubescence in the flowering zone of the plant.

The red flowers are most often small, however, they appear as a whole wreath around the crown of the cactus. After flowering, fruits arranged in the form of a wreath can also be a spectacular decoration. hallmarks of this highly species-rich genus are the non-rugose papillae that form the stalk and the flowers that emerge from the depressions between the papillae (the axils). Many species of this genus are beautiful, cultivated and unpretentious. Almost all, especially the cushion-forming species, prefer wider and lower pots, and all like a well-permeable soil substrate with the addition of a large amount of coarse sand. Those species that have such dense spines or such strong hairy or woolly hair that they appear white or yellow prefer a particularly bright, sunny and warm location and need more moderate watering.

Species that give the impression of green plants require, although light, but shaded from direct sunlight at noon, they tolerate a substrate containing much more humus and more plentiful.

Many mammillaria are great for window sill cultivation. Thanks to the warmth behind the window glass, heated by the rays of the spring sun, they often bloom there already in March and therefore also require appropriate watering. Mammillaria growing in height with short-cylindrical stems tend to tilt the top towards the light, that is, towards the window glass. Therefore, the hobbyist has to observe a less decorative backside, but in any case one should not try to correct this by constantly turning the plant pots. Despite the relatively small seed size, mammillaria are easy to grow from seed. Seedlings bloom, as a rule, in the third or fourth year after sowing.

Mammillaria bokasskaya ( Marnmillaria bocasana).

Due to its dense white felt-hairy pubescence, an interesting looking appearance; each areole has a single central spine, with a hook at the top. The long red fruits are more beautiful than the small nondescript cream flowers. The plant is quite sensitive to excess water; a well-permeable substrate and moderate watering are recommended.

Marnmillaria elongata.

The splendor of this plant is due not to the rather nondescript yellowish-white flowers, but to the spines painted in various tones from light to dark yellow, reddish or brown. Thanks to abundant branching, it forms large decorative groups of elongated shoots as thick as a finger. Recommended sunny location, well-permeable substrate and moderate watering.

Mammillaria long papillary ( Marnmillaria longimamma).

A distinctive feature of this species are unusually long papillae and bright yellow, relatively large flowers. Cleanly cut and sufficiently dried papillae can take root and thus form new plants.

Mammillaria large papillary ( Marnmillaria magnimamma).

At present, under this name, a whole group of slightly different forms is combined, the most famous of which is still often called M. centricirha. In any case, all forms contain milky juice. In this case, we are talking about typical representatives of the so-called "green mammillaria", which form large and often very beautiful curtains with age. spectacular contrast between green stems, white felt hairs in the axils of the papillae and red flowers. Plants must be kept in a bright place, otherwise the spines do not develop well.

Marnmillaria zeilmanniana.

This species also has hooked spines, however, unlike M. bocasana, the sinuses between the papillae are bare. Already young small plants bloom profusely with purple-red, rarely white flowers. Flowering specimens in huge quantities go on sale every year on the eve of Mother's Day. The plant gives offspring and over the years forms large curtains. Prefers flat, wide pots and well-permeable, sandy substrate. Look at the types of mamillaria cacti in the photo and the descriptions above will acquire a characteristic visual shape:

Neoporteria

Most cacti of the genus Neoporteria, which have long turnip-like roots, dark almost black stems or thick spines, are adapted to extreme conditions existence in their homeland on the sea coasts and in the mountainous regions of Chile and in culture are complex. However, there are species that, with a certain flair, can be grown in small amateur collections.

Neoporteria gerocephala.

Dense, intertwined spines vary in color from creamy white to dark brown. In carmine-red, yellow inside flowers, even after full blooming, the inner petals remain folded together. Flowers appear in late autumn or early spring. A well-permeable, predominantly mineral substrate and moderate watering are recommended.

Neoporteria paucicostata.

This species is also highly variable. Particularly prized are plants with blue-green stems and black spines on the top of the head at the point of new growth. Pale reddish-white flowers open fully.

notocactus

These are small, globular cacti, most easily recognizable by their conspicuous purple stigmas. Among the notocacti, there are many species that are suitable for growing by beginners and for small collections. All of them need a substrate with the addition of a certain amount of humus and a bright, warm location. However, species with few spines should not be kept in full sun. In general, notocacti prefer even growing conditions and require not very cool and not meanly dry conditions in winter.

Notocactus Haselberga ( Notocactus haselbergii).

The crown of this species is unusually obliquely flattened. The stigmas, unlike other notocacti, are dark yellow. Already at the very beginning of spring, red buds appear on the oblique crown tilted towards the light.

Notocactus Lehninghaus ( Notocactus leninghausii).

This species has short-cylindrical stems and differs from the usual portrait of globular notocatus. Thanks to its dense golden yellow spines and yellow flowers that appear on plants from 20 cm high, the cactus looks highly decorative. The top grows obliquely in the direction of the light. Do not change the position of the plant relative to the light.

Notocactus Otto ( Notocactus ottonis).

This species was formerly a standard plant for cactus enthusiasts and is often found commercially today. This is green plant with a small amount spines and a woolly crown must be kept in a bright, but not sunny place. Silky-yellow flowers have red stigmas characteristic of notocactus proper.

Notocactus submammulosus var. pampeanus.

Interesting in this variety are light, awl-shaped flattened central spines and yellow flowers with typical red stigma.

Types of flat prickly pear cacti (with photo)

Prickly pear, with its often disc-shaped flattened, jointed shoots, is a well-known cactus. Many saw species of prickly pear cactus growing wild there in the Mediterranean, and some, probably, even brought their shoots from there. These types of flat cacti prefer a well-permeable substrate and a very sunny, without any shade, place. Otherwise, they grow thin, elongated shoots.

Only very few species are suitable for cultivation in a sunny window, to which shoots brought from the Mediterranean are usually not included. Prickly pear also bloom only under optimal conditions and almost all tend to grow into very large plants.

However, at the disposal of lovers with the appropriate conditions there are very beautiful, with a blue wax coating and decorative spines on the stems, abundantly flowering plants. To this it should be added that although many of them have beautiful spines, however, if they are carelessly touched, hundreds of very small and thin hairs (glochidia) dig into the skin with their hook-shaped outgrowths. Prickly pear should never be taken with bare hands!

Prickly pear ( Opuntia microdasys).

This species is still fairly common on the market. The very short, hairy spines make the segmented stems appear to be covered in small pads. There are forms with white, yellow, reddish and brown spines. Species of the subgenus Tephrocactus originating from the Andean highlands can be cultivated in greenhouses (Group 4). Some hardy prickly pear in viticultural areas with good drainage can also be grown in open rock gardens. Look at the types of prickly pear cactus in the photo, which, combined with the descriptions, will make it possible to create a completely correct picture:

Oreocereus - types of cacti without thorns: names and photos

Thick hairs covering the plant protect it from night frosts at home. These types of thornless cacti are widespread in cultural floriculture. The flowers of this columnar cactus appear only when grown in a greenhouse. However, young specimens of this cactus, covered with white hairy pubescence and sometimes powerful spines, are also grown with pleasure by amateurs in small collections. True, being cacti originating from high mountain regions, they grow worse in living rooms with their even climatic conditions than in suitable greenhouses. For oreocereus, regular airing and a large difference between winter and summer, as well as day and night, are desirable. In summer, the night coolness after a hot day, which brings with it a higher relative humidity of the air - these are the optimal conditions for these cacti. Look at these types of thornless cacti in the photo, where prominent distinctive botanical characteristics are:

Oreocereus Troll ( Oreocereus trollii).

This cactus is densely shrouded in white hairs. The central flowers, breaking through the hairy cover, are yellow to reddish in color.

Types of cactus parody

In appearance, parody cacti are very similar to notocacti, but do not have a red stigma and, on the contrary, are very often covered with hooked spines. Among the parodies, there are many unpretentious in culture, with beautiful spines, abundantly flowering species that are also suitable for keeping in small collections. The seeds of many types of parodies are very small, so sowing requires great skill. When the seedlings reach a certain size, their cultivation is most often not a problem.

Parodia mutabilis.

The hallmarks of these commonly found plants are powerful yellow spines with a hook at the end and yellow flowers.

Schwebs parody ( Parodia schwebsiana).

Like many parodies, the plant, which takes on a short-columnar shape with age, is distinguished by its white-pubescent top, which is decorated with more and more groups of red flowers for several weeks.

phyllocactus

Phyllocactus stems are dihedral in cross-section, leaf-like flattened and almost always devoid of thorns. While most cultivated cacti are wild-growing species, phyllocactus are hybrid forms, of which many thousands have been obtained from the beginning of the last century to the present. The original genera are Heliocereus and Nopalxonia, which grow vertically and bloom with red flowers. Later, the white-flowered epiphytic Epiphyllum crenatum was added to them, and, finally, to get even larger flowers, the “queen of the night” (Selenicereus).

These hybrid cacti, which vary greatly in growth form, color and flower size, are one of the most popular indoor plants. Sometimes in front of peasant estates you can find old specimens kept in harsh conditions, which are distinguished by unusually lush flowering.

The flowers can reach a diameter of 20 cm and with their bright colors (from white, yellow, salmon to red and red-violet flowers), they are among the most beautiful in the entire cactus family. When obtaining separate forms for crossing, different parents were used, so the requirements in the culture also vary. There are very large sizes and smaller, with vertical and curved shoots, sensitive and less sensitive varieties. Many modern, highly valued cultivars come from the USA, where, under optimal climatic conditions, they were selected for only one criterion: the beauty of their flowers. In other cultivation conditions, these plants sometimes disappoint their owners. For beginners, well-known, well-established varieties will bring more joy.

Since almost all varietal forms were obtained as parents of epiphytic plants, phyllocactus is grown in a well-permeable soil mixture for cacti with the addition of sand, perlite and sometimes sphagnum.

These plants must be kept in a bright, but rather semi-shaded place; although they bloom luxuriantly in the sun, their leaves very quickly become covered with ugly burns. In summer, it is very favorable to keep it outdoors on a stand in the light shade of a tree, so that the plant is shaded from direct sunlight, especially in the hottest midday hours. In winter, most varieties need to be kept at 8 - 10°C and in completely dry conditions. cut leaf-shaped segments of the stems, which must be cut and dried again before rooting.

Pilosocereus (Pilosocereus palmeri).

This columnar cactus, covered with a blue wax coating, at a height of about 50 cm, long decorative hairy bunches appear in the areoles, which at the top of the stem form a kind of hairy cap - pseudocephalus. Only under favorable conditions and when the plant reaches a certain age, red-brown flowers appear from this hairy cap. (When cultivated in greenhouses, the species blooms easily.) Check out these types of thornless cacti - their photos and names will allow you to right choice plants for your home

Rebutia

Rebutia are small ribbed or papillary globular cacti. Without flowers, they are easily confused with lobivia or mammillaria. A typical sign flowers appear at the bottom side, at the base of the stem, while almost all other spherical cacti have flowers blooming at the top.

Rebutias are popular among cactus lovers and are often found on sale. If their requirements in culture are observed, they grow well, and all rebutia willingly and profusely bloom in spring with numerous variegated and bright flowers.

In addition, they are easily propagated by seeds, and seedlings of some species often bloom already in the second year after sowing. Since rebutias most often come from high mountain areas, they prefer a bright but not very hot location, plenty of fresh air and a pronounced temperature difference between day and night, as well as winter and summer. When grown in stagnant suffocating air or in even warm conditions of living rooms, plants wither and become especially susceptible to insect damage. especially the red spider mite. However, rebutia grow excellently in greenhouses or during the growing season on outdoor windowsills. There they can be immediately buried in large quantities, for example, in a flat balcony flower box filled with loose substrate. Wintering should be cool and dry, otherwise rebutia bloom poorly. Some species are very variable, often even in culture, as a result of cross-pollination, hybrid forms are involuntarily formed, which then multiply further.

Rebutia heliosa.

Thanks to the beautiful spines that justify the Latin name of the plant "sun-shaped", and graceful orange flowers this look is very attractive. Under the conditions of culture, thanks to the offspring at the base of the stem, it forms whole curtains. Sometimes in the middle of summer, the plants have a summer dormant period, during which they need to be watered very sparingly. Reproduction from offspring ("children") is not difficult, but in this case, plants often do not form a turnip root. Grafted plants often give the impression of being overfed.

Rebutia dwarf ( Rebutia pygmaea).

This species belongs to the group of rebutias with short-cylindrical stems and forming curtains due to the large number of offspring. The plant has a turnip root, so it is recommended to use a well-permeable substrate for cultivation.

Ripsalidopsis

Rhipsalidopsis gaertneri("Easter" cactus).

Like the "Christmas" cactus, this plant has flattened, leaf-like, jointed stems, but forms radially symmetrical flowers. This leading epiphytic cactus on its own roots is quite sensitive. The substrate for it should be well permeable and have a slightly acidic reaction (pH value from 5 to 5.5). It is recommended to use a light soil mixture containing peat with a significant addition of perlite and sphagnum. The substrate and irrigation water should not contain magnesium and calcium salts. The soil in the pot must always be kept slightly moist, in addition, these cacti like higher humidity. For the summer, the plant can be taken out into the fresh air and placed in the light shade of a tree or large bush. In dry, hot weather, regular spraying with water is necessary. A light dormant period from October to February during the shortest days, overwintering at around 10°C and reduced watering encourage flower bud set. From mid-February, the plants are transferred to a warmer place.

Rhipsalis - types of cacti with leaves

These types of leafy cacti may have flattened leaf-like stems, like those of phyllocactus, in other species they branch profusely and consist of coral-like, thin, rounded segments. The flowers are very small, and white, mistletoe-like berries often develop as fruits.

These epiphytic cacti are cultivated as companion plants in orchid, bromeliad and tillandsia collections. It is together with these plants that various types of ripsalis grow in natural conditions and therefore have similar requirements in culture. The substrate and irrigation water should be slightly acidic.

Many species have arcuate drooping shoots, so they are grown as ampelous plants or in orchid baskets. In summer, plants can be kept in the light shade of a tree outside. Numerous small flowers appear in winter, so in winter the plants should be in a bright and warm place. A flower showcase or a closed flower window is very suitable for this, in which the above-mentioned epiphytic plants are grown. After flowering, the plants are decorated with numerous berry-like fruits.

Schlumberger ( Zygocactus) x Schlumbergera truncata "Christmas" cactus.

Like the "Easter" cactus, the stems of this plant consist of leaf-shaped flattened, short segments. In addition to the natural, red-flowered form, there are now magnificent varieties with flowers of various colors: from white and pink to yellow and red-violet. The flowers are pollinated by hummingbirds and, unlike the flowers of "Easter" cacti, have a zygomorphic structure. Flowering time falls on the Christmas holidays, since the laying of flower buds occurs with a decrease in the length of daylight hours. Schlumbergers are grown similarly to ripsalidopsis and ripsalis in a light, slightly acidic and well-permeable substrate. Plants prefer a light, however, not sunny location. In summer, these cacti are kept in their usual place in the room or taken outside and placed in light shade under a tree. In the latter case, care must be taken to protect plants from snails. A light dormant period from mid-September to mid-November with a decrease in watering along with a short daylight hours contributes to the formation of flower buds. Once buds have appeared, plants should not be rearranged or rotated, but should be moistened regularly and kept warm, otherwise dropping of buds is observed. Along with plants growing on their roots, there are also standard forms grafted onto Peireskia or Selenicereus.

Selenicereus grandiflorus Selenicereus grandiflora, "Queen of the Night".

These large cacti have thin, serpentine, creeping or climbing shoots. They are among the most popular cacti, although they are grown by only a very few cacti growers. Nevertheless, the plant, which simultaneously blooms many magnificent flowers up to 25 cm in diameter, is an unforgettable sight. The flowers open in the evening and remain open for only a few hours. In the morning they wither. The plant is cultivated in a large pot or flower tub in a predominantly humus-containing but nevertheless well-permeable substrate. Regular fertilizing is a prerequisite for strong growth and abundant flowering. Shoots are tied to a solid support. Plants prefer a warm and light, but not very sunny location. In winter, they must be kept at a temperature of at least 15 ° C and keep the substrate slightly moist.

Setiechinopsis ( Setiechinopsis mirabilis)

After reaching a height of only 10 cm, the plant develops more and more groups of its elegant white flowers that bloom at night. Many seeds are produced by self-pollination.

Stetson Stetsonia coryne.

The seeds of this species, which grows in its homeland in the form of a tree-like cactus, are often found in mixtures of cactus seeds. Young plants with columnar bluish-green stems and long black spines are extremely attractive. V-shaped fruits are formed above the areoles. Stetsonia must be cultivated in warm conditions, even in winter the temperature should not fall below 15 ° C. Plants require moderate watering.

Sulcorebutia.

Compared to the similar genus Rebutia, sulcorebutia have narrow, linear areoles and pectinately arranged hard spines. The flowers outside are fairly large, wide scales. The genus was isolated only in 1951, and then only one single species was known. Thanks to numerous scientific expeditions and travels to collect new species, so many attractive plants have been found that it almost made Sulcorebutia one of the most popular cacti. True, due to confusion with collection numbers, names and varieties, it is currently very difficult to navigate among plants of this genus; however, taxonomic issues aside, sulcorebutia are small, globular cacti with beautiful spines and numerous attractive flowers in a variety of bright colors.

Almost all species vary in the color of the spines and flowers, and most form numerous offspring. Sulcorebutia, like lobivia and rebutia, should be kept in fairly "Spartan" conditions. They require a bright, but not hot place.

A significant difference in day and night, as well as summer and winter temperatures is desirable. Sulcorebutia do not grow well in constantly well-heated living rooms, but thrive in regularly ventilated greenhouses or on a weather-protected outside window sill. Wintering should be cool and dry.

Telocactus.

The genus includes globular or slightly elongated cacti with both ribbed and papillary stems. Typical for the genus is that the flowers appear at the end of a short groove at the very top of the stem. Many hobbyists especially appreciate telocacti for their powerful, sometimes variegated spines and large flowers. Telocacti prefer a predominantly mineral substrate and should be kept in a sunny and warm place during the growing season. In winter, they can be kept in cool and completely dry conditions. They are suitable cacti for cultivation in a closed sunny flower window.

Trichocereus

This large columnar cactus has stamens arranged in a stepped wreath, similar to representatives of the genera Echinopsis and Lobivia. Many trichocereus bloom only in greenhouse conditions, however, young specimens are happy to be kept by amateurs and in small collections due to their attractive spines. The remaining small species also bloom only under favorable cultivation conditions. Trichocereus need nutritious, well-permeable soil and regular abundant fertilizing. In summer, plants are kept in the sun and warm, in winter - dry and cool.

Trichocereus fulvilanus.

This species is popular for its showy long spines. White flowers appear only on plants over one meter high.

Trichocereus hybr.

There are hybrids obtained by crossing such Trichocereus-owls as T. thelegonus, T. candicans or T. grandiflorus with various echinopsis. These hybrids have large, bright and well-formed flowers. Hybrid Trichocereus require warm, sunny conditions and good nutrition.

Turbinicarpus

These small, globular cacti with papery, hairy, or feathery spines are gaining in popularity among hobbyists. Even in a small room, you can collect a whole collection of them; usually still very small plants bloom profusely. In their homeland, turbinicarpus have to exist in difficult conditions. Plants are characterized by slow growth and in culture should not be forced to develop them more rapidly. These cacti have turnip roots, so a well-permeable mineral substrate is recommended for their cultivation. Plants are planted in small but tall pots or planted in large quantities in a larger pot. Turbinicarpus are watered sparingly even during the growing season, with excessive watering they can stretch. In summer, the plants are kept in a warm and bright place, but not in the bright sun. Ideal wintering dry and cool. In places of natural growth, plants often become very rare and therefore protected by law. However, seed propagation under culture conditions is not difficult and does not present any particular problems.

Turbinicarpus valdezianus.

This species is very popular for its white feathery spines and purple-red flowers that bloom in early spring. Already in winter, buds in the form of small black dots are clearly visible on the top of the cactus.