Tephrocactus articulatus var. strobiliformis is a small succulent which grows in segmented stems that resemble pine cones. It suckers profusely and is very easy to grow by just knocking off one of the “cones” and replanting it in the ground.
Tephrocactus articulatus var. strobiliformis is a small succulent which grows in segmented stems that resemble pine cones. It suckers profusely and is very easy to grow by just knocking off one of the “cones” and replanting it in the ground.
A mature plant resembles a vertical stack of pine cones. Tephrocactus articulatus var. strobiliformis is an interesting container plant that can be grown outside in Southern California. Tephrocactus articulatus var. strobiliformis is also appropriate for sheltered cactus, succulent, rock and xeriscape gardens where it will not be bumped into.
A medium green color in light shade, Tephrocactus articulatus var. strobiliformis gets a pinkish cast in full sun. The 2-inch long white flowers are a nice contrast to the color of the plant.
Use care when handling this plant as the little glochids at the areoles are quite a nuisance. When handling plants with glochids (tiny little spines) you can use disposable gloves. Regular gloves work will work at the beginning, but once glochids get inside them you won’t want to put them on again. Tephrocactus articulatus var. strobiliformis looks best when slightly distressed when the rich browns and reds come out. A great trick we have discovered here at the nursery is placing a 1gal inside a slightly larger can like a two gallon pot. That way the sides of the interior can are shaded from the sun and the larger can helps hold up the 1gallon container very well. We tried this out after noticing that can temps can reach 180 on the surface and sides!
This little cactus looks great in a container. The small pieces sort of get lost in a larger landscape. Try not to let the plant get too dry as its sections will begin to dislodge and fall. You can just pick them up and place them elsewhere if you would like some more. Be sure and control weeds before planting them in a bed, weeds become very difficult to remove without breaking apart the plant.
