Pale coryphantha Coryphantha pallida

Water

The pallid cory cactus should be watered sparingly, typically every 1-2 weeks during the active growing season, which is usually from late spring to early fall. During this time, provide enough water to soak the soil thoroughly until it runs out of the drainage holes, which might be around 8-16 ounces depending on the size of the pot. Let the soil dry out completely between waterings. During the dormant season in the fall and winter, reduce watering to once a month or less, just enough to prevent the soil from completely drying out.

Light

Pallid cory cactus thrives best under full sun to partial shade conditions. It should be placed in a spot where it can receive at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. An ideal location would be a south or west-facing window if grown indoors, or an area that receives ample morning light and some afternoon shade if grown outdoors.

Temperature

Pallid cory cactus prefers temperatures between 70°F and 90°F during its growing season. It can tolerate minimum temperatures down to about 50°F, but should not be exposed to frost, as it can damage the plant. Providing good ventilation around the plant helps maintain the ideal temperature range and promotes healthy growth.

Pruning

Pruning pallid cory cactus is not typically required as it is a slow-growing plant. However, if you need to remove any dead or damaged spines, do so with care using tweezers or a small pair of tongs. This should be done as needed, and there is no specific time for pruning since the cactus grows relatively slowly and maintains its shape well.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Pallid Cory Cactus requires a well-draining soil mix such as a cactus or succulent potting mix. Adding extra perlite or pumice can enhance drainage. The preferred soil pH is slightly acidic to neutral, around 5.5 to 7.5.

Repotting

Pallid Cory Cactus should be repotted every two to three years or when it outgrows its pot. It's best to repot during the plant's active growth period in the spring or summer.

Humidity & Misting

Pallid Cory Cactus thrives in low humidity conditions typical of arid environments. It is well-suited to indoor environments where the humidity is generally lower.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and avoid overwatering.

• Outdoor

  Full sun to partial shade, protect from heavy rain.

• Hardiness zone

  9-11 USDA

Life cycle

Coryphantha pallida, commonly known as pale cory cactus, begins its life cycle as a seed, typically dispersed by wind or animals, and most successfully germinates in a warm, well-drained substrate, with light being a critical factor. Upon sprouting, the seedling slowly develops a taproot and starts to form the characteristic globular to cylindric stem with woolly areoles. Vegetative growth progresses as the cactus develops spines and matures, photosynthesizing to generate energy. As the plant reaches maturity, which may take several years, it produces attractive yellow flowers, commonly in the late spring or summer that are pollinated by insects, leading to fruit and seed set. After pollination and fruit maturation, the seeds are then released into the environment to start a new generation. The species continues to grow and can produce flowers annually, with individual cacti capable of living for many decades under the right conditions.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: Coryphantha pallida, also known as the Pincushion Cactus, is most effectively propagated using seeds. The best time to sow the seeds is during the spring or summer when temperatures are warm, which mimics their natural germination period in the wild. To propagate Pincushion Cactus by seeds, one should first fill a pot with a well-draining cactus mix. Sow the seeds on the surface of the soil and gently press them in, covering them with a thin layer of sand or fine grit. The pot should be placed in a warm location with indirect light and covered with plastic wrap or a glass pane to maintain humidity. It is essential to keep the soil slightly moist but not waterlogged. Over the course of several weeks to months, with proper warmth and ventilation, the seeds will germinate, and tiny cacti will begin to grow.