Matucana madisoniorum
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Matucana madisoniorum

Tier 2 Difficulty: easy Water: low Light: full_sun
Water every
7 days
Temperature
20–37 °C
Soil pH
6–7
Hardiness
Zone 9–11
Click count
32
Observations
109

Description

Source: leafsnap

Matucana madisoniorum is a cactus species native to the Andes Mountains in Peru. This small, globular cactus typically reaches up to 10 cm in height and 8 cm in diameter. It is easily recognizable by its bright green stems, which are covered in white spines, and its large, showy flowers that range in color from pink to purple. Matucana madisoniorum thrives in well-draining soil and bright sunlight, although it can tolerate some shade. It requires moderate watering during the growing season but should be allowed to dry out between waterings during the dormant period. This cactus has gained popularity among collectors because of its unique appearance and stunning flowers. However, it faces threats from habitat loss due to mining activities and overgrazing by livestock. Overall, Matucana madisoniorum is an intriguing plant with striking features, making it a desirable addition for any cacti enthusiast or collector.

Care Guide

💧 Water Every 7 days
Suggested frequency: Every 7 days
☀️ Light Full sun

Native to dry habitats, Matucana madisoniorum does best in full sun; its natural habitat features intense sunlight and little shade. It can also tolerate partial sun, giving it some flexibility in its growth.

Ideal: Full sun
🌡️ Temperature 20–37.8°C

Matucana madisoniorum prefers warm conditions and requires higher temperatures in the growing season to stimulate growth and metabolism. It benefits from abundant sunlight, suitable moisture levels, and good air circulation. However, it is vulnerable to harm from very low temperatures and from overwatering. It is also important to maintain a balance and avoid both excessively high heat and overly dry conditions.

Ideal temperature: 20–37.8°C
💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 6-7
Soil pH: 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer

For Matucana madisoniorum, apply light doses of fertilizer one to two times a year during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing in winter and in summer when it is dormant. Reduce fertilizer for plants that have been repotted and wait a couple of months after repotting before fertilizing. Fertilizing supports healthy growth and encourages blooms.

🪴 Pot & Repot 2-3 years

Repot Matucana madisoniorum in spring or summer into a pot just a bit larger than the present one that provides good drainage. Use a sandy or gritty cactus mix with excellent drainage. Handle the plant gently to avoid its spines. Let the cactus dry out before repotting to help prevent root rot. After repotting, wait one week before watering so the roots can heal.

Suggested frequency: 2-3 years
✂️ Pruning
🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Shrub, Succulent
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Matucana
Family
Cactaceae
Hardiness Zone
9-11
Mature Height
15 cm
Mature Spread
5 cm to 8 cm
Leaf Color
Dark Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Color
Red, Pink
Flower Size
3.05 cm to 4.06 cm
Bloom Time
Late spring, Summer, Early fall
Planting Time
Spring, Summer
Harvest Time
Late summer, Fall
Native Area
Peru

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