Foxtail cactus (Escobaria)

Foxtail cactus

Foxtail cactus are petite cylindrical or globe-like cacti with distinctive pitted seeds, which aids in their identification. They are slow-growing clump formers that typically produce bright pink flowers in the spring. Foxtail cactus have species that are legally protected in some areas of their native North America. They are named Escobaria for the Mexican naturalist Romulo Numa Escobar.

Scientific classification

Genus

Foxtail cactus (Escobaria)

Family

Cactuses

Order

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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Evergreen

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Foxtail cactus

Species

Missouri foxtail cactus Spinystar Whitecolumn foxtail cactus Escobaria chlorantha Junior tom thumb cactus Cushion foxtail cactus

Care Guide for Foxtail cactus

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Foxtail cactus thrives in arid environments with high drought tolerance, requiring infrequent watering approximately every three weeks. Suitable for xeric landscapes, it thrives in rock gardens or sandy soils, mimicking its natural dry habitat and needing minimal supplemental moisture.

Propagation: Propagation of foxtail cactus primarily uses seed sowing and division due to ineffective cuttings. Success requires proper light, warm temperatures, and well-draining soil. Steps include using sandy mixes, providing bright but indirect light, minimal watering until germination, gentle transplanting, and gradual acclimation to mature conditions.

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Learn More About Foxtail cactus

How to Grow and Care

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