Copiapoa hypogaea, the underground copiapoa, is a species of flowering plant in the genus Copiapoa in the cactus family (Cactaceae), native to northern Chile. It has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
Copiapoa hypogaea shows strong resistance to disease and generally tolerates standard care without becoming ill easily. It can, however, be vulnerable to mealybugs; these pests may inflict some harm but typically do not pose a major danger. Regarding care, Copiapoa hypogaea is tolerant of drought and does not require frequent watering. It endures extended intervals without water and needs little fertilizer. That said, it is very prone to root rot if kept in poor light and watered excessively. In general, Copiapoa hypogaea is a good choice for people who prefer low-maintenance plants, though it remains important to meet its basic requirements. It is especially appropriate for those who are away for long stretches and might forget to water their plants regularly.
How to keep Copiapoa Hypogaea.
Light
Copiapoa hypogaea, native to dry regions, does best in full sun; its natural habitat has intense sunlight and very little shade. It can also tolerate partial sun, giving it some flexibility in its growth.
Temperature
Although Copiapoa hypogaea tolerates some heat, it mainly thrives and grows in the cooler seasons and goes dormant in summer. In hot summer conditions, provide shade to prevent scorching from intense sunlight. Watering should be decreased or stopped during the hottest season to avoid root rot. Copiapoa hypogaea grows vigorously in winter and spring. Provided the temperature does not drop too low, it will continue to grow steadily.
Fertilizer
For Copiapoa hypogaea, light applications of fertilizer once or twice a year during the growing season are sufficient. Do not fertilize in winter or summer when it is dormant. Reduce fertilizer for plants that have been repotted and wait a couple of months after repotting before feeding. Fertilizing helps maintain healthy growth and promotes blooms.
Pot & Repot
Repot Copiapoa hypogaea in spring or summer, using a pot a bit larger than the current one that provides adequate drainage. Use a well-draining, sandy or gritty cactus potting mix. Handle the plant gently to avoid its spines. Let the cactus dry out before repotting to lower the risk of root rot. After repotting, wait about a week before watering so the roots can heal.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Succulent
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Copiapoa
- Family
- Cactaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 20 cm
- Mature Spread
- 20 cm
- Leaf Color
- Dark Green, Gray
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Size
- 2.03 cm to 3.05 cm
- Bloom Time
- Summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
