Stetsonia Coryne

Stetsonia coryne , also known as the Argentine Cactus or Hourglass Cactus , is a large columnar cactus native to the arid regions of South America, particularly Argentina, Bolivia, and Paraguay. It is prized for its imposing appearance and ability to easily adapt to arid conditions.

Description

• Shape : It is a columnar cactus, with an upright structure, which can reach a height of 3-6 meters in its natural habitat. In controlled growing conditions, the dimensions are much smaller.

• Thorns : The thorns are long, stiff, and sharp, yellow-brown in color, growing from well-marked areoles. They protect the plant against predators and water loss.

• Flowers : The flowers are large, greenish-white, and open at night. They usually appear in adulthood and are followed by small, fleshy fruits.

• Fruits : The fruits are edible, but are rarely produced indoors.

Care

1. Light

• Preferences : Stetsonia coryne needs a lot of direct light to grow healthily and maintain its rigid structure. Place it in a spot where it can receive at least 6 hours of sun per day.

• Indoors : If kept indoors, provide a spot near a south or west facing window. Without enough light, the plant may become elongated and misshapen.

2. Temperature

• Optimum temperature : The plant prefers warm temperatures, between 20-30°C, but tolerates variations well. It is adapted to arid conditions.

• Cold resistance : Tolerates low temperatures, but not lower than 5°C. In regions with cold winters, it must be kept indoors or protected from frost.

3. Watering

• Active season (spring-summer) : Water the cactus moderately, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. One watering every 2-3 weeks is usually sufficient.

• Resting season (autumn-winter) : Reduce watering to a minimum, watering only enough to prevent the stem from drying out completely. During this period, the plant consumes very little water.

4. Soil

• Soil type : Stetsonia coryne requires very well-drained soil. A specific mixture for cacti, composed of universal soil, coarse sand and perlite, is ideal.

• Drainage : It is essential that the pot has drainage holes to prevent water accumulation.

5. Fertilization

• Frequency : Fertilize the plant once a month during the active growth period, using a specific fertilizer for cacti and succulents, diluted to half the recommended concentration.

• Winter : Fertilization is not necessary during the dormant period.

6. Replanting

• Frequency : Replant the cactus every 2-3 years or when the roots fill the pot.

• Ideal time : Spring is the best time for replanting.

Height with pot included 6 cm.
The plant is sold without flowers.