Thelocactus TULENSIS

Thelocactus TULENSIS - Tula thelocactus, Thelocactus tulensis, Echinocactus.

Thelocactus is a genus of cacti in the family Cactaceae, comprising about 10 species found in northern and central Mexico. Representatives of the genus are characterized by a spherical shape, ornamental spines, and large flowers blooming at the apex of the plant.

Plants are solitary, with dense ribs or tubercles on which areoles with radial and central spines are located. The flowers are funnel-shaped, bright, opening under good lighting. The fruits are juicy, small; seeds are dark, shiny or matte.

Tula thelocactus is a compact species with a depressed-globose body up to 10 cm (3.9 in) in diameter. The stem color is glaucous-green or grey-green. The surface is tuberculate, areoles are whitish. The spines are slender, straight or slightly curved, white to yellowish, neatly radiating across the body surface.

It blooms in spring and summer. The flowers are funnel-shaped, pink, purple, or cream, up to 5 cm (2.0 in) in diameter, with a yellow center. The flowers appear at the crown and last for several days each. The fruits are green, oval, dehiscing when fully ripe.

Seeds are sown on the surface of a moistened mineral substrate. Sowings are covered with glass or film. Germination temperature is 22-26 °C (72-79 °F). Daily ventilation is carried out.

Seedlings emerge after 7-14 days. The maximum possible germination time is up to 30 days. Pricking out is carried out after the appearance of the first spines. Young plants grow evenly and tolerate repotting well.

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It is placed in a sunny location. A south or southwest window is suitable. Maintenance with access to direct sunlight is preferred. Ventilation and minimal air humidity are provided. During the growth period, a temperature of 22-28 °C (72-82 °F) is maintained. In winter, keeping at 8-12 °C (46-54 °F) is recommended. Watering is carried out after the soil completely dries out. In winter, watering is stopped completely.

A mineral substrate with the addition of sand, fine pebbles, and brick chips is used. Planting is carried out in a wide, stable pot with mandatory drainage. Repotting is carried out if necessary in spring. Fertilizers are applied once every 3-4 weeks during the warm period of the year. Special fertilizers for cacti with minimal nitrogen content are used. During the dormant period, fertilizing is not applied.

Shaping is not required. Propagation is carried out by seeds. The plant does not form offsets. Flowering is possible in the 3rd-4th year with good care and observance of winter dormancy conditions.