Opuntia subulata cristata: When Cactus Growth “Goes Crazy” in Fantastic Whorls
Have you ever seen a cactus that looks like it’s having a crazy hair day? Well, get ready to be wowed by the Opuntia subulata cristata! This out-of-this-world cactus is truly one-of-a-kind with its bizarre crested growth that spirals into mind-boggling whorls and fans. Keep reading to discover what makes this plant so incredibly unique and how you can grow your own sculptural masterpiece at home.
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About Opuntia subulata cristata
Rather than producing typical cactus stems and flowers, the Opuntia subulata cristata goes completely rogue with its growth. The cells at the tips of the branches start rapidly multiplying, causing the branches to fan out into wide undulating crests topped with long, emerald-green succulent leaves and white spines. These crested branches slowly form into delightful, snake-like ridged clusters in a hemispheric shape. The plant also sprouts a rapidly-growing cylindrical stem, giving a peek into its origins. While its few white spines may look fierce, they actually add to the plant’s striking, otherworldly beauty.
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How to Care for Opuntia subulata cristata
Light
Like most cacti, the Opuntia subulata cristata is a serious sun-worshipper. It thrives in bright, direct sunlight for as many hours as possible. The ideal spot is an exposed outdoor garden or balcony where it can soak up those rays all day long. During summer’s peak heat, give it a shady break to prevent sun scorch. You can also use a grow light indoors with 14-16 hours of light daily.
Watering
Don’t be a over-waterer with this cactus buddy! The Opuntia subulata cristata likes its soil on the drier side andis more likely to rot from too much moisture than too little. In spring, summer and fall, give it a deep watering about every 1-2 weeks, letting the soil dry out completely each time. In winter, cut back to watering just once a month or whenever the soil is completely dried out. Use rainwater or distilled water if possible to avoid mineral buildup.
Soil
This cactus prefers a well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix. A blend of 1 part peat/coco coir, 3 parts vermiculite and 1 part coarse sand works perfectly. You can also mix in a handful of compost or slow-release fertilizer. The vermiculite helps increase airflow to the roots to prevent rot. Repot every year or two using fresh mix to maintain good drainage.
Fertilizing
During the growing season of spring through fall, feed your Opuntia subulata cristata with a balanced cactus fertilizer once a month. Avoid fertilizing in the winter when growth is minimal. You can also top-dress with compost or worm castings as fertilizer.
Temperature and Humidity
Native to hot, arid desert regions, the Opuntia subulata cristata thrives in warm temperatures from about 68°F to 95°F. Nighttime temps below 50°F or heat over 95°F can damage the plant. It prefers very low humidity and dry air, so avoid muggy conditions.
Pests and Problems
This funky cactus can occasionally be pestered by mealybugs, spider mites or fungal diseases if overwatered or in poor airflow. Check for signs like webbing, yellowing or black spots and treat accordingly. Prune off any diseased sections.
Pruning
Since the Opuntia subulata cristata’s crazy growth is its star factor, very little pruning is required. Just snip off any dead or damaged crest branches.
Potting and Repotting
Use a breathable clay or ceramic pot with drainage holes, and repot every 1-2 years in spring or fall into a container just an inch or two wider. Gently knock off any old soil from the roots when repotting into fresh mix.
How to Propagate Opuntia subulata cristata
This whimsical cactus can be easily propagated from cuttings or grafting to grow your own crested masterpieces.
- Cuttings are the easiest way to go. Simply use a sharp, sterile knife or pruners to cut off a stem segment or crested fan. Allow the cutting to callus over for a few days before planting in well-draining cactus soil.
- For propagation by grafting:
- You’ll need to get a suitable cactus rootstock plant
- Cut off the tip of the rootstock
- Remove any roots from the Opuntia subulata cristata cutting
- Insert the cut end of the crested cutting into the rootstock’s center
- Secure it in place by tying with rope or covering the join with a grafting clip
- After 2-3 weeks, you’ll see the two plants knitting together. Remove the rope once grafted.
- You can also try growing Opuntia subulata cristata from seeds, but this is trickier. The seeds need warm temperatures around 70°F and high humidity until germination.
No matter which propagation method you choose, have patience! These crazy-crested cacti can take their sweet time establishing themselves before exploding into whorled growth.