Weberbauerocereus JOHNSONII

Weberbauerocereus JOHNSONII - Johnson's weberbauerocereus, Haageocereus ACRANTHUS, Haageocereus.

Weberbauerocereus is a genus of plants in the cactus family (Cactaceae), comprising nine species, in nature predominantly growing in the northern regions of Chile or in Peru. The genus was first described by Curt Backeberg in 1942. The researcher and cactus specialist named it in honor of the German biologist August Weberbauer.

Representatives of the genus are shrubby plants that branch from the very base. The shrub is tall, with some members of the species reaching 2 m (6.6 ft) in height. The stems can have a linear form or be curved. They are densely covered with white or yellowish spines. The flowers are small, bell-shaped, white, brownish, or red in color. The flowers open only at night.

Spherical fruits with a diameter of 3-5 mm (0.1-0.2 in) are covered with hairs and have white pulp. The color varies from green and purple to orange.

Johnson's weberbauerocereus reaches a meter (3.3 ft) or more in height. The stems are 2-3 cm (0.8-1.2 in) in diameter. The epidermis is green, and the number of ribs is 10-15. Spines densely cover the stems, having a rich yellow or orange coloration. The flowers are small, red or pink in color.

It propagates by seeds. Seeds are sown in late April or early May into moist soil. The optimal substrate acidity (pH) for sowing is 6.5. The most favorable temperature for seed germination is 25-35 °C (77-95 °F). Until germination, the container is kept in shade. Upon germination, it is moved under direct sunlight. Pricking out is performed when the first spines appear.

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Except for excessively tall species, Weberbauerocereus is grown as an indoor plant. It is warmth-loving; light and direct sunlight, as well as soil drainage, are needed for growth. In winter, it feels comfortable under frost. For cultivation under home conditions, coarse sand is required.

Watering in winter is carried out once every few weeks, and in summer or spring once every 2-3 days. The cactus is repotted as it grows or every 2-3 years.

Standard liquid fertilizers for cacti are used for feeding. Fertilizing once a month is sufficient.