Pincushion Cactus
maihueniopsis ovata
Also known as: ["Maihuenia ovata","Opuntia ovata"]
Overview
A small, globular cactus with spiny stems and yellow flowers, native to South America.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Maihueniopsis |
| Botanical Name: | Maihueniopsis ovata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright light or outdoor rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically once a year or when dead segments are present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate direct sunlight, but acclimate gradually to avoid sunburn. Adjust exposure based on seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant to direct sun slowly over 1–2 weeks. Place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade. Indoors, use a south-facing window with sheer curtains to filter intense light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to monthly in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries out completely between waterings; avoid waterlogging, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky cactus mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid overwatering; use gritty amendments for better aeration.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts down to 25°F (-4°C) but thrives in warm, dry conditions. Avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat or cold.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only during growing season; dilute fertilizer to prevent salt buildup; apply after watering to avoid root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets. Cuttings root easily when taken from healthy, mature stems.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Let cut end dry for 1–2 days.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
- Wait for roots to form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F), humid (50–60%), and bright indirect light. Protect from direct sun until roots establish.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio).
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use bottom heat to speed up rooting; maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut segments with a clean, sharp knife or shears. Allow cuts to dry for a day before handling further.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning is needed. Remove dead or damaged segments to maintain health and aesthetics.
Tools
Sterile knife or pruning shears, gloves, alcohol for sterilization.
Checklist
Identify dead/damaged segments; sterilize tools; cut cleanly; let cuts dry; dispose of removed parts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) in diameter.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh cactus soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container. Typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; discard excess water; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during spring and fall, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to near zero, as the plant enters dormancy. Increase frequency slightly in summer, but still ensure soil dries out between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to commercial cactus soil to enhance drainage. Avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or necrosis on new growth; slow growth; bud drop; wilting despite adequate water.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolic processes, leading to stunted growth and increased susceptibility to rot. Prolonged cold can cause tissue damage.
Solution: Move the plant indoors or to a sheltered location during cold spells. Use a space heater or frost cloth for protection. Reduce watering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, sunburn, and wilting. High temperatures combined with intense sunlight may lead to scorching of the epidermis.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure adequate ventilation; water early in the day to reduce evaporation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use cactus-specific fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize monthly in growing season; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength. Fertilize once a month during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they ingest parts of Maihueniopsis ovata. The spines can cause physical injury if encountered.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Maihueniopsis ovata can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. The spines may also pose a physical hazard if swallowed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicMaihueniopsis ovata contains mild irritants that can cause gastrointestinal discomfort if ingested. The spines can also cause mechanical injury to the mouth and digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Maihueniopsis ovata?
A: Water sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry, typically every 2-3 weeks during growing season.
Q: Does this cactus need full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright, direct sunlight for at least 6 hours daily.
Q: Can I grow it indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors in a well-lit spot with minimal watering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
