Picture by Valentino Vallicelli via Llifle
Basic Info
Austrocylindropuntia vestita is also known as ‘Cotton Pole’. As the plant matures you can expect it to create this beautiful looking green stem that is covered by white hairs. When the plant flowers you can expect it to produce red to violet flowers.
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Opuntioideae
Tribe: Austrocylindropuntieae
Genus: Austrocylindropuntia
Care and Propagation Information
Watering
Austrocylindropuntia Vestita ‘Cotton Pole’ can be quite beautiful when it is well-taken care off. This succulent type needs typical watering as the other succulents. The watering method is very important to keep your Cotton Pole 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 Austrocylindropuntia Vestita ‘Cotton Pole’
This succulent type is a rare one that blooms in the spring. When it blooms, you will enjoy red or violet flowers. It is a nice addition to your outside garden!
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Quick Facts:
- Prefers full sun
- Can be grown outdoor
- Grows 60 cm (24″) tall
- Grows up to 3 cm (1,5″) wide
- Can die easily if overwatered see: How to Water Succulent Plants
- Does not handle cold well
- Prefers Zone 9b-11b -3.9 °C (25 F)
- Best propagated by seeds
- Flowers are red or violet
Where to Plant
Austrocylindropuntia Vestita ‘Cotton Pole’ 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 9b-11b which is around -3.9 °C (25 °F). If you live in a cold area, it is better to plant Cotton Pole in an indoor environment. As long as it gets enough sunlight, the plant will grow happily.
How to Propagate Austrocylindropuntia Vestita ‘Cotton Pole’
Cotton Pole 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.
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 Austrocylindropuntia Vestita ‘Cotton Pole’ 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
Cotton Pole is native to Bolivia and Northern Argentina
