Tephrocactus articulatus
Family: Cactaceae​
​Common Name: ​pine cone cactus
Origin: Tephrocactus articulatus originated in western Argentina, (Cordoba, Catamarca, Mendoza, La Rioja, San Luis, Salta, and Santiago Del Estero provinces) in a highly variable landscape.
Description: The pine cone cactus forms upright gray-green growths with globular, pine-cone shaped segments. Cacti usually reach 12 inches tall, with segments nearing 4 inches. Additionally, this species possesses round, woolly areoles with small brown glochids - from which showy bell-shaped flowers emerge, being white with yellow centers.
  • Interesting Features:
    • T. articulatus has great variation, with several forms available on the market, including T. articulatus var. papyracanthus and T. articulatus var. strobiliformis. These forms are even more popular than the straight species, and are more commonly cultivated.
    • T. articulatus is invasive in Namibia, South Africa.
    • Occasional spines are formed, taking on a “papery” appearance which has earned T. articulatus the common name “papery spine cactus”. However, spines are actually quite sharp.
  • Uses: Tephrocactus species are used extensively as garden ornamentals.

Cultivation and Care:
  • Watering: Low
    • Water the pine cone cactus sparingly.
    • ​The best method of irrigation is to soak the succulent and then allow to dry completely in between waterings.
    • Plant in a terra cotta pot to absorb excess moisture.
  • Soil: T. articulatus tolerates poor substrate, but prefers sandy, well-draining soil.
  • Lighting: Full sun to partial shade is required for this species to thrive, and therefore it fares better outdoors.
    • However, if providing direct light, indoor planting is possible, but growth may be reduced under insufficient sunlight.
  • Propagation: Propagation is possible through seed, but as T. articulatus is a slow grower, stem cuttings or layering are recommended instead.
    • If propagating from seed, plant in well-draining soil – do not plant outside if the environment is cool.
  • Cold Tolerance: 15° F, USDA hardiness zones 8b to 10b.
  • Special Accommodations: The pinecone-like segments of T. articulatus are very fragile and care should be taken not to cause breakage during repotting.

Sources:
  1. The Last Cactus Classification
  2. CALS, University of Arizona
  3. Succulents Network
  4. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
  5. Cactus Hound
  6. World of Succulents
  7. Garden