How to Grow Pine Cone Cactus in India

Pine Cone Cactus is not a common sight in the Indian households, making it a must have plant for everyone!

Pine Cone cactus is a quirky houseplant that is perfect for hot and dry regions. What’s more is that its foliage has a blue shade instead of the common green, making it stand out. Curious to know more? Stay tuned.

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Pine Cone Cactus Information

The Pine Cone is a beautiful cactus that’s native to Alabama and Mississippi in the USA. It does not grow in the wild but can be found in nurseries easily.

It’s a popular houseplant with segmented stems. These stems look like miniature pine cones that give the plant its name. It has a lovely silver-blue color and is covered in tiny bumps (tubercles) that help conserve water.

The cactus grows up to 2 feet in height but can spread even more, sometimes reaching up to 4 feet. It also has small yellow flowers and tiny red fruits that add to its beauty. The fruits aren’t edible, though, so don’t try it.

Botanical Name: Tephrocactus articulatus

Common Names: Spruce Cone Cactus, Paper-Spine Cactus

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Propagating Pine Cone Cactus

The easiest and most reliable way is to propagate this cactus with a stem cutting. Take a 2-3 inch long cutting that is healthy and cut it cleanly and evenly. Let it dry in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight for 3-5 days.

After that, just take a pot filled with good quality cactus potting mix and gently plant the cutting in it (the cut end with a node should be buried beneath the soil). Water it lightly and place it on a sunny window. You’ll have to be patient – the cutting might take 1-2 months to establish roots, but care for the plant and don’t overwater it. Soon, you’ll see the roots growing, and the cactus will grow into a new one.

You should also try Growing Donkey Ears Plant in India

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Requirements for Growing Pine Cone Cactus

Sunlight

Pine Cone cacti need bright, indirect sunlight most of the day. But don’t let it sit in the harsh afternoon sun, especially during the hot months of April to June. Just keep it near a south-facing window.

Soil

Go for this soil recipe, and your plant will thank you.

• 2 parts potting soil for structure.
• 1 part perlite for aeration and drainage.
• 1 part coarse sand for drainage and preventing soil compaction.
• 1/2 part crushed granite for slow release of minerals.

Mix all of these in a large pot, get rid of the clumps, and plant your cactus in it.

Watering

These plants need little water, so don’t overdo it. Water it once so the soil gets moist, and then let it sit for 3-4 days. Check the soil and water it again only if it’s dry. If it’s still moist, wait another day or two.

Climate

Like most cacti, these ones also need warm temperatures. The thrive best between 18-29°C but can tolerate a bit of variation as well.

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Pine Cone Cactus Care

Fertilizer

Any good quality low-nitrogen fertilizer can be used to fertilize your cactus. Dilute it to half its strength in water and feed it to the plant once in 4-6 weeks. But only do it in the growing season, never in winter months.

Pests and Diseases

These cacti are often affected by mealybugs, so use a neem oil spray or an insecticidal soap to get rid of them. Do the same for spider mites.

Pine Cone cactus, like most others, can get root rot if you overwater it. So don’t water it like other plants. Let it dry out before watering it again.

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Regional Tips for Growing Pine Cone Cactus

You might have to adjust your care according to the region you live in. Here are the tips you’ll need.

• North India: The winters are dry and cold, so make sure it gets plenty of sunlight.
• South India: You’ll need to manage the intense summer heat with shade and proper ventilation.
• Coastal regions: The humidity is high so reduce the watering accordingly. Only water when the soil is dry. Not before.