Elephant's Foot Cactus
coryphantha elephantidens
Also known as: ["Elephant's Foot Cactus","Toothed Coryphantha"]
Overview
A slow-growing, globular cactus with prominent tubercles and spines, native to Mexico.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Coryphantha |
| Botanical Name: | Coryphantha elephantidens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright, sunny location 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: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when damage is observed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or full sun (4–6 hours/day); adjust to avoid scorching in intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; provide shade during peak summer heat; place indoors near south-facing window or outdoors in dappled sunlight.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
fast-draining cactus mix with coarse sand or perlite
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure soil dries between waterings.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F/18–29°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in warmth.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced cactus fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a specialized cactus fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets (pups); division of clumps is also possible.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy offset or cutting.
- Let cut end dry for a few days.
- Plant in well-draining medium.
- Keep lightly moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots may form in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callous before planting; use a humidity dome for faster rooting; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools to remove affected parts; make cuts at the base of the affected area.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged parts to maintain health and shape.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Inspect for damage; sterilize tools; make clean cuts; dispose of removed parts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant carefully; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh cactus mix with good drainage; avoid overwatering after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant outgrows its container; necessary to refresh soil and improve drainage.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base, soaking the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting the body of the cactus; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply during active growing season (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry completely between waterings; reduce or cease watering in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to commercial potting mix; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, stunted growth, or softening of tissues in cold; scorching or sunburn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root rot if soil remains wet; prolonged cold may lead to tissue damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; provide frost protection if temperatures drop below 40°F/4°C.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, sunburn, or etiolation if not acclimated to bright light.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity slightly; ensure adequate water without overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during growing season (spring-summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCoryphantha elephantidens is not toxic to cats. The plant does not produce substances that are harmful to felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicThere are no documented toxic effects of Coryphantha elephantidens on dogs. The plant does not contain known toxic compounds that would harm canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCoryphantha elephantidens is not known to produce any toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects in humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption, though caution should be exercised due to its spiny nature.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Coryphantha elephantidens?
A: Water sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry, typically every 2-4 weeks depending on climate and season.
Q: Does this cactus need full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is Coryphantha elephantidens toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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