Horse crippler cactus

Horse crippler cactus Care

Echinocactus texensis

What is the plant

The Horse Crippler Cactus is a small perennial evergreen cactus native to Mexico and the United States and belongs to the Cactoideae family. Interestingly, the cactus most often grows alone in its natural environment, but in some cases, it can be seen in a group. The horse Crippler Cactus is quite resistant to drought and cold, which is why it has become popular in many countries.

Echinocactus texensis can be easily identified by its branching, thick spines, and round shape, which makes it quite inconspicuous. The cactus has from one to three stems of dark or light green color, which varies depending on the place of growth. The stem is deep in the soil and only grows above ground to 2 in (5 cm) tall and 12 in (30 cm ) wide.

The flowers look like small bells, have a pink color with a transition to bright red closer to the middle, and their base is yellow. Flowering begins in late spring or early summer under suitable conditions and sufficient sunlight.

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Humidity

Dry

Lighting

Full Sun

Temperature

20°C - 27°C

Hardiness zone

5 - 9

Difficulty

Medium

How to Care for the Plant

Water
Once or twice a week, water the plant after the soil is slightly dry, but it is important not to overdry it, as it needs light moisture.
Pruning
Carefully remove dead branches and old flowers to encourage healthy growth and avoid disease.
Fertilizer
Once a month during the growing season, use a special liquid fertilizer, and when transplanting, use a slow-release fertilizer.

Disease diagnosis

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Sunlight
Horse Crippler Cactus needs a lot of sunlight, so you should place the plant on a well-lit window or balcony. On particularly hot days, provide light shade to avoid burns.
Soil
A well-drained soil for cacti or succulents that contains nutrients is best.
Propagation
Cut off a small healthy stem with a disinfected blade, then plant it in well-drained, slightly moist soil.

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Temperature
The ideal temperature for the Horse Crippler is 68-95˚F (20-35°C).
Container
Use a container made of any material with sufficient drainage holes.
Fun fact
The plant got its name due to the fact that horses do not notice it and step on it quite often.