Golden snake-cactus (Bergerocactus emoryi)

Golden snake-cactus

Also known as: Sprawling Cactus, Golden Snake Cactus, Velvet cactus, Golden-spined cereus

Golden snake-cactus (*Bergerocactus emoryi*) is a shrubby, columnar cactus that grows upright to 91 cm tall. It grow densely covered in golden spines. Its cup-shaped, yellow flowers bloom in spring and summer. It is commonly found in the southwestern United States. It thrives in full sun and is fairly drought tolerant.

Scientific classification

Species

Golden snake-cactus (Bergerocactus emoryi)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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1 m

Plant Height

5 cm

Spread

2 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Green, Red

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Golden snake-cactus

Distribution of Golden snake-cactus

Distribution Map

Golden snake-cactus is native to the major region of North America. While it primarily thrives in its place of origin, it has also been successfully cultivated in regions beyond, where it adapts to similar arid climates.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Coastal chaparral, hillsides

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

An erect multi-stemmed cactus with several cultivars available, golden snake-cactus is amazing for cactus gardens and xeriscaping. It can be an attractive specimen plant in a garden setting - just make sure it is planted away from garden paths and other busy locations, as the spines are sharp and can hurt.

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Care Guide for Golden snake-cactus

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Golden snake-cactus flourishes in arid environments, showcasing drought tolerance and efficient water storage. It requires watering every three weeks and thrives outdoors in dry climates. Its flowering is influenced by rare rains, essential to its desert habitat.

Fertilize: Fertilize golden snake-cactus monthly with balanced Succulents and Cacti Food during the growing season at quarter strength to avoid root burn. Cease in winter when golden snake-cactus is dormant. For juvenile golden snake-cactus, fertilize sparingly. Water the soil prior to application for effective nutrient absorption.

Pruning: Golden snake-cactus requires minimal pruning. Simply remove withered flowers and branches to ensure the plant focuses its nutrients on promoting healthy growth.

Propagation: Golden snake-cactus is a succulent that prefers full sun and well-draining soil, typical of arid environments. Propagation via cuttings is successful when the cutting is allowed to callous before planting. A warm setting with low moisture enhances rooting, matching golden snake-cactus's natural dry habitat.

Repotting: The 'golden snake-cactus' is a columnar cactus that reaches 1-1.5 meters in height. Repot every 2-3 years in spring using a larger container with good drainage. After repotting, place in bright light, avoiding direct sun for a week, and ensure consistent watering while allowing soil to dry between waterings.

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