Ferocactus Cylindraceus "Albispinus"
Family
Cactaceae
Native
Mexico
Description
Echinocactus cylindraceus 'Albispinus' is a colourful barrel cactus usually unbranched, forming a single moderately tall column up to 2 (3) m tall and 30 cm in diameter. The ribs are 2.5cm high and tuberculate. This species is highly variable and has numerous synonyms.
Ferocactus Acanthodes f. Albispinus is the rare white spined form of Ferocactus acanthodes. A large central spine and three auxiliary centrals form a crucifix shape, The primary central is 7-15, angles down and is slightly to moderately hooked, sometimes to 90 degrees. The other centrals are from 5 to 7.5 cm long. The centrals are noticeably ring ridged and flattened, with a flat upper surface and rounded lower surface. Spines are pure white to very light grey (often shaded with pink, but only in the new growth).
Yellow flowers tinged with red appear in May and June at the crown of the plant, 4 to 6 cm. The fruit with scales is fleshy, yellow or yellowish green 5 cm long, 2.5 cm in diameter.
Environment
It prefers the sun in the seasons of passage (spring and autumn), while in the summer it likes the partial shade,
It is suited for any rich, well drained soil such us clay, pumice, lava grit, and only a little peat or leaf-mould. If potted, repot preferably in the spring, if their roots become cramped. Generally, they should be repotted every other year in order to provide fresh soil. However, this doesn't necessarily mean they'll need larger containers. Fill about a quarter of the pot with broken crocks, gravel, etc. to promote good drainage.
Feed every 4 weeks with a Nitrogen-poor and Potassium & Phosphorus-rich fertilizer during summer.
Once a month it is recommended to clean it with a painter's brush, to remove the dust that creeps under the big thorns.
Landscape Uses
It is an excellent plant for garden rockery settings, desert type landscapes, patios and botanical gardens,
