Escobaria missouriensis - Missouri Foxtail Cactus, a miniature frost-hardy cactus

Escobaria missouriensis, commonly known as Missouri Foxtail Cactus, is a miniature cactus native to the central regions of North America, appreciated for its compact shape, fine symmetrically arranged spines, and spectacular spring flowering. Despite its small size, it produces surprisingly large flowers in shades of pale yellow, greenish-yellow, or sometimes with pinkish tones, followed by small, red, edible fruits.

It is one of the most cold-hardy cactus species, suitable for rock gardens and xeriscape gardens, as well as for growing in containers placed outdoors.

🌿 Botanical characteristics:

• Full name: Escobaria missouriensis

• Common name: Missouri Foxtail Cactus

• Family: Cactaceae

• Plant type: perennial succulent cactus

• Globular to short cylindrical growth habit

• Fine, whitish, evenly arranged spines

• Flowers ranging from pale yellow to greenish-yellow, sometimes with pinkish tones

• May produce small, red, edible fruits

• Slow growth

• Mature height: approximately 8-20 cm

• Mature diameter: approximately 8-15 cm

• Frost tolerance: down to approximately -25°C, when grown in a very well-drained substrate

🌞 Growing conditions:

• Light: prefers direct sunlight and very bright locations.

• Substrate: very well-drained, mineral-based, and suitable for cacti and succulents.

• Watering: limited; water only after the substrate has dried out completely.

• Temperature: tolerates low temperatures very well, but the substrate should remain as dry as possible during winter.

• Fertilization: occasionally in spring and summer, using a fertilizer for cacti and succulents.

🌱 Secret Garden recommendation:

👉 For healthy growth and a strong root system, we recommend Secret Garden Professional Substrate for Cacti, Succulents and Adenium – SG MIX, formulated for excellent drainage and optimal root aeration.

➡️ View the product: https://secretgarden.ro/products/substrat-cactusi-suculente-adenium

✨ What makes it special:

• one of the most frost-hardy cactus species;

• spectacular flowering, with large flowers relative to the plant’s size;

• produces decorative and edible red fruits;

• ideal for rock gardens, xeriscape gardens, and containers;

• requires very little maintenance and is suitable even for beginners.

📌 Note: Flowering occurs on mature specimens grown under optimal light and care conditions. For maximum winter hardiness, the plant must be grown in a very well-drained substrate, avoiding excess moisture during the cold season. Following handling, transport, or adaptation to new environmental conditions, the cactus may show minor aesthetic imperfections or superficial scars, without affecting the plant’s health or development.

Height including the pot: approx. 6 cm

The plant is sold without flowers.