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Matucana oreodoxa Rare cactus plant for sale

Matucana oreodoxa (Ritter) Slaba

Origin: Peru (Valley of the Rio Puchca, Ancash, at an elevation of about 1800-3000 m).

Conservation status: Listed in CITES appendix 2.

The species is listed as Vulnerable because it is known from one location and the area of occupancy is likely to be less than 20 km². It is presumed that there are no major threats at present in the area where it occurs. However, a potential threat is illegal collection, if the locality is discovered, collection will have severe consequences.

Habitat: The species dwells in inter-Andean valleys and is uncommon.

Common English Names:

Synonyms: Borzicactus oreodoxus (Ritt.) Donald 1971

Hardiness:USDA Zone 10b: to 1.7 °C (35 °F), USDA Zone 11: above 4.5 °C (40 °F)

The species is sought after by specialized collectors and by locals that know there is an international market, however, it is not easily found.

Description: Small species with usually solitary, or slowly branching from the base. For its particular shape it vaguely remembers of Lophophora.
Stem: Flattened globe to short columnar, grass green, dull grey-green to dark green, 8-15 cm tall, up to 8 cm in diameter.

Flowers: Slender, infundibuliform, radially symmetrical, bright orange-red, 8-10 cm long and 3-5.5 cm in diameter.

Bloom time:.Midddle Spring

Fruit: oval, pale green, about 8 mm in diameter.

Frost Tolerance: Keep above 45°F (8°C), some species will take frost for a short period of time if kept dry

Heat Tolerance:

Minimum Temperature: 55°F (12°C)

Watering Needs: Keep warm and water less in winter, needs good drainage.

Cultivation: Matucana oreodoxa grow slowly in their natural habitats, but in greenhouses or grafted they grow quickly, with tissues that are less firm.  They benefit from a good light but not severe sunlight.
Grow in rich, porous soil and let their soil dry out between waterings.  They need good drainage.
Repot in the spring when their roots become cramped.  Generally, they should be repotted every other year, in order to provide fresh soil.  However, this doesn't necessarily mean they'll need larger containers.  After re-potting, do not water for a week or more.

Notes: Drought-tolerant; suitable for xeriscaping
Average Water Needs; Water regularly; do not overwater
Suitable for growing in containers