Aztecium

Family. Cactaceae. 

Origin. Northern and Central Mexico.

Description. A spherical, squat, slightly pubescent cactus, rarely exceeding 5 cm in diameter with 9 to 11 rounded, pronounced ribs. They, in turn, are crossed by numerous horizontal grooves. Young plants are pale green, adults are gray-green. The areoles are small and very numerous, located along the edge of each rib, pubescent.

The spines are small, poorly developed, curved, up to 13 mm. long, grayish-white. The flowers are small (10 - 30 mm in diameter), white, pink, the outer petals often have a darker stripe in the middle, and open during the day. After flowering, small round or elongated pink fruits are formed, which open when ripe and release tiny shiny brown-black seeds.

Height. 20 cm.

Home care

Containment temperature

The minimum temperature during the dormant period is from 5 to 8 ° C, withstands short frosts down to -4 ° C, the rest of the time normal room temperature is quite suitable. 

Lighting

A slightly shaded place is best for this cactus.

Reproduction

Aztekium is usually propagated by seeds, which germinate very easily, producing small seedlings. Seeds are sown in the spring in soil half consisting of sand. During this period, it is necessary to maintain constant humidity, it is advisable to cover the container with a plastic cap. Grafting on fast-growing cacti.

Care

This is probably the slowest growing cactus, its development often only becoming noticeable within a year.

Soil for cactus

Mineral - sandy mixture with a small amount of organic matter, containing sand, garden soil with a small amount of chalk; The pH should be neutral. Very good drainage is required. 

Feeding aztecium

Once a month during the growth period with fertilizers diluted to half the specified dosage. 

Purpose

Look great in composition with other cacti or succulents on rocks. 

Flowering time

July - August is when the temperature reaches its maximum.

Air humidity

Easily tolerates dry air and does not require spraying. 

Watering

Water abundantly in summer, but allow the top layer of soil to dry before the next watering, keep it almost dry during the winter rest period.

Transfer

In the spring, once every 2-3 years.

Pests and diseases

Of the harmful insects, the main danger may be mealybugs, scale insects, nematodes and spider mites.  

Aztekium hintonii

       Solitary growing cacti with vertical and very deep ribs. The stems are grayish-green, spherical, often without thorns. It grows very slowly. The flowers are pink and appear at the top of the stem.