Turbinicarpus is a genus of small, low-growing cacti that belong to the deserts and semi-arid areas of Mexico. These gorgeous and special plants are known for their vibrant flowers and fascinating shapes, making them a popular choice for collectors and lovers worldwide.
The genus Turbinicarpus was first described in 1922 by Czech botanist Frantiek Buxbaum. It is currently made up of around 40 species, although taxonomists continue to dispute the exact number due to the high degree of variation within the genus. A few of the most popular types include Turbinicarpus valdezianus, Turbinicarpus schmiedickeanus, and Turbinicarpus pseudomacrochele.
Among the most striking features of Turbinicarpus are their distinct shapes. These plants typically have round or globular stems that are covered in little, knobby bumps or ridges. These bumps are referred to as tubercles and are in fact modified leaves that assist the plant in saving water in arid environments. The tubercles can likewise have a woolly or fuzzy look, which is triggered by small hairs known as trichomes.
In addition to their distinct shapes, Turbinicarpus is also known for its gorgeous flowers. These blooms can be found in a wide variety of colors, including pink, white, yellow, and red. The flowers are star-shaped and usually small, and they often appear in clusters near the top of the plant. Many species of Turbinicarpus are likewise known for producing edible fruits, which are typically utilized in traditional medicine and as a food source by local neighborhoods.
In spite of their popularity among cactus enthusiasts, numerous types of Turbinicarpus are under threat due to environmental loss, illegal collection, and overgrazing by livestock. In response to these dangers, several preservation companies have actually been developed to secure these unique plants and their environments. These efforts consist of habitat outreach, restoration, education, and the establishment of safeguarded areas.
In conclusion, Turbinicarpus is a lovely and remarkable genus of cacti that is beloved by collectors and enthusiasts around the globe. With their distinct shapes and vibrant flowers, these plants make sure to add interest and appeal to any collection. It is crucial to keep in mind that many types of Turbinicarpus are threatened in their native habitats and need preservation efforts to ensure their survival for generations to come.
Here are 31 species of Turbinicarpus:
- Turbinicarpus Alonsoi
- Turbinicarpus Beguinii
- Turbinicarpus Bonatzii
- Turbinicarpus Gielsdorfianus
- Turbinicarpus Horripilus
- Turbinicarpus Jauernigii
- Turbinicarpus Laui
- Turbinicarpus Lophophoroides
- Turbinicarpus Macrochele
- Turbinicarpus Mandragora
- Turbinicarpus Pseudomacrochele
- Turbinicarpus Pseudopectinatus
- Turbinicarpus Rioverdensis
- Turbinicarpus Saueri
- Turbinicarpus Schmiedickeanus
- Turbinicarpus Swobodae
- Turbinicarpus Valdezianus
- Turbinicarpus Viereckii
- Turbinicarpus Booleanus
- Turbinicarpus Dickisoniae
- Turbinicarpus Subterraneus
- Turbinicarpus Graminispinus
- Turbinicarpus Klinkerianus
- Turbinicarpus Krainzianus
- Turbinicarpus Knuthianus
- Turbinicarpus Ysabelae
- Turbinicarpus Panarottoi
- Turbinicarpus Zaragosae
- Turbinicarpus x Mombergeri
- Turbinicarpus Hoferi
- Turbinicarpus Minimus
- How To Grow And Care For Turbinicarpus
- How To Propagate Turbinicarpus
- Top 5 FAQ And Answers For Turbinicarpus
- Top 10 Interesting Facts About Turbinicarpus
Turbinicarpus Alonsoi
Turbinicarpus Alonsoi is a little, globular cactus that is native to Mexico. It has a brilliant green body with flattened tubercles and woolly areoles, which produce small pink or white flowers in spring. This type is extremely valued by cactus enthusiasts for its distinct look and sluggish development rate. In the wild, it faces threats from habitat loss and overharvesting.
Turbinicarpus Beguinii
Turbinicarpus Beguinii is a small, slow-growing cactus that is native to Mexico. It has a globular shape with a flattened top and is covered in thick white spinal columns. The flowers are small, pink or white, and blossom in the spring. This type is popular among cactus collectors and enthusiasts. It is thought to be threatened in the wild due to environmental loss and over-collection.
Turbinicarpus Bonatzii
Turbinicarpus Bonatzii is a small and uncommon cactus species native to Mexico. This type is highly treasured by cactus enthusiasts and is threatened in the wild due to habitat loss and illegal collection.
Turbinicarpus Gielsdorfianus
Turbinicarpus Gielsdorfianus is a small and uncommon cactus type that is native to Mexico. It has a round body covered in little white spinal columns and intense pink or purple flowers that flower in the spring.
Turbinicarpus Horripilus
Turbinicarpus Horripilus is a little cactus species with a globular body covered in dense white spinal columns. It produces stunning pink flowers in the spring and requires well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight to flourish. This type is endemic to the deserts of northeastern Mexico and is a popular choice for cactus lovers.
Turbinicarpus Jauernigii
Turbinicarpus Jauernigii is a little, slow-growing cactus type found in Mexico. It has a round, flattened body covered in white, hairy spines and produces small, pinkish flowers. This species is extremely valued by collectors for its distinct appearance and rarity.
Turbinicarpus Laui
Turbinicarpus Laui is a small and rare cactus species belonging to Mexico. It has a globular shape with brief spinal columns and produces pink or purple flowers. It is highly demanded by collectors due to its special look and restricted circulation in the wild. Nevertheless, it is also threatened by environmental destruction and unlawful collection.
Turbinicarpus Lophophoroides
Turbinicarpus Lophophoroides is a little cactus species native to Mexico, identified by its globular shape, dark green color, and largely packed, triangular-shaped tubercles. It produces fragile pink or white flowers that bloom in the summer. This cactus is extremely sought-after by collectors for its unique appearance and rarity.
Turbinicarpus Macrochele
Turbinicarpus Macrochele is a little cactus species belonging to Mexico. It grows and has a globular shape approximately 4 centimeters tall and 5 centimeters wide. The plant is covered in little white spines and has brilliant pink or purple flowers that bloom in the spring. It is a popular type among cactus collectors for its distinct look and easy care requirements. It is also considered susceptible due to habitat loss and over-collection.
Turbinicarpus Mandragora
Turbinicarpus Mandragora is a compact, little cactus species with a unique globular shape. It is native to Mexico and is a popular ornamental plant due to its stunning and vibrant flowers. This species requires really little water and is simple to look after, making it a perfect choice for indoor and outdoor gardening.
Turbinicarpus Pseudomacrochele
Turbinicarpus Pseudomacrochele is a little cactus species that is native to Mexico. It has a distinct appearance, with a round shape and small spinal columns covering its surface area. The cactus produces stunning pink and white flowers that bloom in the spring and summertime. It is a popular plant among enthusiasts and collectors due to its uncommon look and fragile charm. It is likewise a threatened species due to habitat damage and over-collection, and preservation efforts are underway to secure it from termination.
Turbinicarpus Pseudopectinatus
Turbinicarpus Pseudopectinatus is a small cactus species with a globular stem and various tubercles. It produces pink flowers that bloom in spring and summer. This type belongs to Mexico and is frequently grown as an ornamental plant.
Turbinicarpus Rioverdensis
Turbinicarpus Roverdensis is a little cactus type found in the state of Chihuahua, Mexico. It has a round, flattened shape and produces stunning pink and white flowers in the summer season. This cactus is highly valued among collectors for its special appearance and rarity. It needs little water and can survive in extreme desert conditions.
Turbinicarpus Saueri
Turbinicarpus Saueri, is a popular species among cactus collectors due to its unique look and intriguing development patterns. It is thought to be a susceptible species in the wild due to habitat loss and over-collection.
Turbinicarpus Schmiedickeanus
Turbinicarpus Schmiedickeanus is a globular and little cactus type that is native to Mexico. It has a green body covered in white woolly hairs and tiny spines. The plant produces attractive pink or white flowers during the spring and summer seasons. This cactus is valued by collectors for its unique look and is often grown in containers or rock gardens. It is a relatively slow-growing type and requires well-draining soil and brilliant sunshine to thrive.
Turbinicarpus Swobodae
Turbinicarpus Swobodae is a small cactus endemic to Mexico. This cactus is highly sought-after and unusual among collectors due to its unique appearance and small size.
Turbinicarpus Valdezianus
Turbinicarpus Valdezianus is a small, uncommon cactus species belonging to Mexico. It has a globular shape with dark green to gray-green skin and long, white spinal columns. It produces small, pink-to-purple flowers in the summer season. It is prized by cactus enthusiasts for its distinct appearance and rarity. However, it is threatened by habitat loss and unlawful gathering.
Turbinicarpus Viereckii
Turbinicarpus Viereckii is a small, slow-growing cactus type native to northeastern Mexico. It has a globular or cylindrical shape and is covered in unique spinal columns. The plant produces little yellow or pink flowers in the summertime. This type is popular among cactus enthusiasts for its special appearance and difficult growing requirements. It is considered a critically threatened species due to habitat loss and over-collection for the horticultural trade.
Turbinicarpus Booleanus
Turbinicarpus Booleanus is a little cactus type found in the Mexican state of San Luis Potosi. It has a globular shape, with green to bluish-green stems and a thick layer of white spines. The flowers are pink, white, or purple and bloom in the summer. This species is highly sought after by cactus enthusiasts for its special appearance and rarity in growing.
Turbinicarpus Dickisoniae
Turbinicarpus Dickisoniae is a small cactus species that is native to Mexico. It has a spherical or round shape and can mature to 5 cm in height. It is defined by its brilliant green color and many spinal columns. This species is extremely valued by collectors for its special appearance and rarity. It is also known for its little, showy flowers that bloom in the summer.
Turbinicarpus Subterraneus
Turbinicarpus Subterraneus is a little cactus type that is endemic to Mexico. It is a below-ground cactus, meaning that it grows primarily underground with just a small portion of the plant visible above the surface. It is known for its delicate white flowers, which bloom in the summer months. This species is uncommon and highly prized by collectors due to its distinct look and scarcity in the wild.
Turbinicarpus Graminispinus
Turbinicarpus Graminispinus is a little, slow-growing cactus species that is native to Mexico. It has a unique round shape and is covered in small spines, which protect it from predators. This type produces brilliant pink or purple flowers that bloom in the summer season, adding a splash of color to its rocky habitat. In spite of being highly valued by collectors, it is threatened by environmental damage and over-collection.
Turbinicarpus Klinkerianus
Turbinicarpus Klinkerianus is a small cactus species native to Mexico. It has a distinct round shape and is covered in little spines. The flowers are pink or purple and blossom in the summertime. This cactus is highly valued by collectors for its distinct appearance and rarity. It is also known as Klinker’s Pincushion Cactus.
Turbinicarpus Krainzianus
Turbinicarpus Krainzianus is a small, slow-growing cactus species native to Mexico. It has a globular shape with a flattened top and can reach up to 4 cm in height and 5 cm in width. The plant’s body is covered in a thick layer of white or gray spines, which serve as protection from predators. Its flowers are usually pink or white, and they appear in the summer. This species is considered a rare and endangered plant due to habitat loss and illegal collection for the horticultural trade.
Turbinicarpus Knuthianus
Turbinicarpus Knuthianus is a small cactus species with a globular shape, covered in white, hair-like spines. It produces attractive pink or purple flowers that bloom in late spring or early summer. Native to Mexico, this species is endangered due to habitat loss and collection for the horticultural trade.
Turbinicarpus Ysabelae
Turbinicarpus Ysabelae is a slow-growing, little cactus type belonging to Mexico. It has a globular shape with a flattened top and is covered with dense white spines. It produces lovely pink flowers in late winter and early spring. Due to its small size and unique look, it is extremely sought-after by enthusiasts and collectors.
Turbinicarpus Panarottoi
Turbinicarpus Panarottoi is a small cactus species native to Mexico. It has a spherical or round shape with little, flat tubercles and white or pink flowers. This type is extremely valued among cactus collectors for its distinct appearance and rarity. It is also threatened in the wild due to environmental damage and prohibited gathering.
Turbinicarpus Zaragosae
Turbinicarpus Zaragosae is a small, slow-growing cactus species discovered in the state of San Luis Potosi in Mexico. It has a unique look with a round, flattened body, and long, thin spines. It produces little white or pink flowers in the summer season. This type is extremely valued by cactus enthusiasts for its special shape and vibrant flowers and is thought to be threatened in the wild due to habitat loss and over-collection.
Turbinicarpus x Mombergeri
Turbinicarpus x Mombergeri is a little cactus that belongs to the family Cactaceae. It is a hybrid range created by crossing two other cactus types, specifically Turbinicarpus alonsoi and Turbinicarpus saueri. This cactus has a unique look, with a little, round body and various spinal columns covering its surface. It belongs to Mexico and is a popular decorative plant due to its compact size and appealing appearance. It needs minimal care and is an excellent choice for indoor gardening or for those who wish to add a touch of nature to their home.
Turbinicarpus Hoferi
Turbinicarpus Hoferi is a small cactus native to Mexico. This type is popular among cactus collectors due to its unique appearance and reasonably simple care.
Turbinicarpus Minimus
Turbinicarpus Minimus is a small and unusual cactus species that is native to Mexico. It has a globular body with a size of about 2-4 cm and produces intense pink to purple flowers in the spring. This cactus is highly sought after by collectors due to its special look and deficiency. It needs well-draining soil and intense, indirect sunlight to flourish.
How To Grow And Care For Turbinicarpus
Turbinicarpus is a genus of small cacti native to Mexico, known for their attractive flowers and distinctive appearance. Here are some tips on how to grow and care for Turbinicarpus:
- Light: Turbinicarpus requires bright, direct sunlight to grow properly. Place them in a sunny window or under grow lights for 12–14 hours per day.
- Soil: These cacti prefer well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. You can use a cactus mix or create your own using sand, perlite, and peat moss.
- Water: Turbinicarpus prefers to be watered deeply but infrequently. Water them only when the soil is completely dry, and be careful not to overwater, as this can cause root rot. In the winter, water them even less frequently.
- Temperature: Turbinicarpus prefers warm temperatures during the day (around 80–85°F), but cooler temperatures at night (around 50–60°F).
- Fertilizer: These cacti do not require frequent fertilization, but you can feed them with a cactus-specific fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Repotting: Turbinicarpus has a small root system and does not require frequent repotting. You can repot them every two or three years, or when they have outgrown their container.
- Pests and diseases: Turbinicarpus are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they can be susceptible to mealybugs and root rot. Watch for signs of these issues and address them promptly if you notice any problems.
By following these tips, you can grow and care for Turbinicarpus successfully and enjoy its unique beauty.
How To Propagate Turbinicarpus
Turbinicarpus is a genus of small, slow-growing cacti that are native to Mexico. Here are the general steps to propagate Turbinicarpus:
- Choose a healthy parent plant: Select a mature Turbinicarpus cactus that is healthy, disease-free, and free from any pest infestations. This plant will serve as the parent plant for propagation.
- Allow offsets to develop: Turbinicarpus can be propagated through offsets, which are small plantlets that grow at the base of the parent plant. Allow these offsets to develop until they are at least one-third the size of the parent plant before attempting to propagate.
- Prepare a well-draining soil mix: Turbinicarpus prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. You can use a commercial cactus soil mix or create your own mix by combining equal parts of perlite, coarse sand, and peat moss.
- Separate the offsets: Use a clean, sharp knife to separate the offsets from the parent plant. Make sure to leave a small piece of stem attached to the offset. Allow the offsets to dry for a day or two to allow the wound to callous over.
- Plant the offsets: Plant the offsets in small pots filled with the prepared soil mix. Verify that the ground is damp but not soggy. Place the pots in a warm, bright area, but avoid direct sunlight.
- Water the offsets sparingly: allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can cause the offsets to rot.
- Wait for the offsets to establish: It may take several months for the offsets to establish roots and begin to grow. Once they start to grow, you can gradually increase the amount of light they receive.
Overall, propagating Turbinicarpus is a slow and delicate process that requires patience and care. With proper care, however, you can produce healthy new plants from your existing Turbinicarpus cacti.
Top 5 FAQ And Answers For Turbinicarpus
Turbinicarpus is a genus of small, slow-growing cactus native to Mexico. Here are the top 5 frequently asked questions about Turbinicarpus, along with their answers:
Q: How often should I water my Turbinicarpus cactus?
A: Turbinicarpus cacti should be watered sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry. In general, you can water Turbinicarpus cacti about once every 2-3 weeks in the spring and summer, and even less frequently during the winter. Be sure to use a well-draining soil mix and a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot.
Q: What kind of soil is best for Turbinicarpus cacti?
A: Turbinicarpus cacti prefer a well-draining soil mix that is rich in minerals and has a pH of around 6.5. You can make your own soil mix by combining sand, perlite, pumice, and/or lava rock with a cactus-specific potting mix. Avoid using regular garden soil, which can be too heavy and retain too much moisture.
Q: How much light do Turbinicarpus cacti need?
A: Turbinicarpus cacti need bright, direct sunlight for at least a few hours each day. However, they should be protected from the intense midday sun during the hottest months of the year. If you keep your Turbinicarpus cactus indoors, place it near a south-facing window that gets plenty of sunlight. You can also supplement with artificial grow lights if necessary.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Turbinicarpus cactus?
A: Turbinicarpus cacti do not need to be fertilized often and should only be fertilized during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a cactus-specific fertilizer diluted to half strength and apply it once every 4-6 weeks. Avoid fertilizing during the winter, as this is a dormant period for the cactus.
Q: How do I propagate Turbinicarpus cacti?
A: Turbinicarpus cacti can be propagated through seed or by taking stem cuttings. To propagate by seed, simply sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix and keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate. To propagate by stem cutting, use a sterile, sharp knife to cut a piece of stem that is at least 1 inch long. Allow the cutting to dry for a few days, then plant it in a well-draining soil mix and keep the soil lightly moist until the cutting takes root.
Top 10 Interesting Facts About Turbinicarpus
Turbinicarpus is a genus of small, globular, or columnar cacti native to Mexico. Here are ten interesting facts about Turbinicarpus:
- Turbinicarpus is also known as “living rocks” because they resemble small stones or pebbles, making them difficult to spot in their natural habitat.
- Turbinicarpus is a slow-growing genus and can take several years to reach maturity.
- Turbinicarpus plants are typically small, with a maximum height of around 4 inches (10 cm) and a diameter of around 2 inches (5 cm).
- Turbinicarpus has over 50 different species, each with a unique appearance, but they all share the same general shape and size.
- The flowers of Turbinicarpus are small and colorful, ranging from white, pink, red, and purple.
- The fruits of Turbinicarpus are small and dry, and they contain several seeds.
- Turbinicarpus cacti are often sought after by collectors due to their unique appearance and rarity.
- Turbinicarpus plants grow naturally in harsh, rocky terrain, often in rocky crevices or on steep slopes.
- The name “Turbinicarpus” comes from the Latin words “turbo,” which means “spinning top,” and “carpus,” which means “fruit,” referencing the shape of the fruit.
- In their natural habitat, Turbinicarpus cacti are threatened by habitat destruction and over-collection. As a result, many species are considered endangered, and international trade in Turbinicarpus is regulated under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
