Copiapoa griseoviolacea PL3

Copiapoa griseoviolacea is a species of cactus native to Chile, specifically found in the Atacama Desert. It's known for its distinctive appearance and is a popular species among cactus enthusiasts. Here's a detailed description and some cultivation tips:

Description

• Appearance: Copiapoa griseoviolacea is characterized by its spherical to short cylindrical shape. The plants can grow either solitary or form clusters.
• Color: The cactus has a unique coloration, typically grayish to violet, which is where it gets its name 'griseoviolacea' (gray-violet).
• Size: The plants are relatively small, often staying under 10 cm in height, but can reach up to 15 cm in diameter.
• Spines: The spines are variable, often short and black, and can be quite dense, covering much of the plant's surface.
• Flowers: It produces yellow flowers that appear near the crown of the plant. The flowering usually occurs in summer.

Cultivation Tips

1. Light: Requires strong light to maintain its compact shape and coloration. In regions with milder sunlight, it can tolerate full sun, but in hotter areas, it may need some afternoon shade.
2. Watering: Water moderately during the growing season, but let the soil dry out completely between waterings. In winter, reduce watering significantly to prevent root rot.
3. Soil: A well-draining soil mix is essential. Use a cactus mix or create your own with a combination of potting soil, sand, and perlite or pumice.
4. Temperature: It prefers warmer temperatures and needs to be protected from frost. Ideal growing temperatures are between 20-25°C (68-77°F).
5. Feeding: Fertilize during the growing season with a diluted cactus fertilizer, but avoid over-fertilizing.
6. Repotting: Repot every few years to refresh the soil. Be careful with the roots, as they can be fragile.

Propagation

• Propagation is typically done through seeds, as it can be difficult to obtain offsets from this species.