Picture via britannica
Basic Info
Ariocarpus Retusus is also commonly known as the ‘Living Rock Cactus. As the cacti matures you can expect it to produce a green to brown looking stem that will eventually flower from the top. When the plant flowers you can expect green, yellow, pink, pale purple or reddish flowers.
Care and Propagation Information
Watering
Ariocarpus Retusus ‘Living Rock Cactus’ can be quite beautiful when it is well-taken care of. This succulent type needs typical watering as the other succulents. The watering method is very important to keep your Living Rock Cactus healthy. It should not sit on the water, and an excess amount of water should be avoided. The best way of watering is soak and dry method this succulent. Yet, the succulent should be controlled to avoid overwatering.
General Care for Ariocarpus Retusus ‘Living Rock Cactus’
This succulent type is a rare one which blooms in the spring. When it blooms, you will enjoy pink, pale pink, purple or reddish flowers. It is a nice addition to your collection of plants especially if you have it displayed in a beautiful pot.
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Quick Facts:
- Prefers full sun
- Can be grown outdoor
- Grows 2-3 cm (1″) tall
- Grows up to 60 cm (24″) wide
- Can die easily if overwatered see: How to Water Succulent Plants
- Does not handle cold well
- Prefers Zone 10a-11b -6.7 °C (20 F)
- Best propagated by seeds
- Flowers are green, yellow, pink, pale purple or red
- Grows best from January to March
Where to Plant
Ariocarpus Retusus succulents need strong light. When planting this succulent type in a garden, make sure it gets sunlight. Full to partial sun is the best for its growth. It is better to grow outdoor rather than indoor.
This type of succulent prefers a warm climate. It can survive at zone 10a11b which is around -6.7 °C (20 °F). If you live in a cold area, it is better to plant Living Rock Cactus in an indoor environment. As long as it gets enough sunlight, the plant will grow happily.
When selecting what pot to use be sure that you understand the difference between the material used (See our guide on how to pick the best plant pot).
How to Propagate Ariocarpus Retusus ‘Living Rock Cactus’
Living Rock Cactus can be propagated by seeds. This succulent type does not require repotting often. Of course, the first-time repotting is essential when it is bought from the store. You can learn all about How To Repot Succulents in our guide.
Like all the other succulent types, a well-drained soil mixture is essential. If you want to know about well-drained soil mixtures, check How to Prepare Well-drained Soil for Succulent Plants.
How to Propagate Ariocarpus Retusus ‘Living Rock Cactus’ Using Seeds
This succulent type is a slow grower so even if it can be propagated by its seeds, this method is not recommended. To propagate from the seeds, plant the seeds in a well-draining soil mixture. This method can be used outdoors. In cooler areas, indoor propagating is recommended.
Origin and Habitat
Living Rock Cactus is native to Mexico (around Choahuila, Nuevo León, San Luis Potosí, Chihuahua) and USA (around Texas and New Mexico).
Are you struggling with propagation? This ebook is a how-to guide created for successful propagation. You will find detailed and helpful information for all the propagation methods. It is suitable for you whether you’re just starting with them or ready to advance your knowledge.
