Picture by Wolfgang Bleicher via Allthingsplants
Basic Info
Consolea Rubescens is also commonly known as the ‘Road Kill Cactus’. As the plant grows you will notice that the plants base is dense and as close to an tree-like cacti that you can find it is able to reach 6 m (20ft) tall and around 15 cm (6″) in diameter. When looking at the plants picture you will notice that the cactus pads are dull-green with bombs all around the pads. When the plant flowers it is known to produce orange flowers from Spring.
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Opuntioideae
Tribe: Opuntieae
Genus: Consolea
Care and Propagation Information
Watering
Consolea Rubescens ‘Road Kill 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 Road Kill 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 Consolea Rubescens ‘Road Kill Cactus’
This succulent type is a unique one that blooms in the spring. When it blooms, you will enjoy orange 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 6 m (20ft) tall
- Grows up to 15 cm (6″) 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 grafting or seeds
- Flowers are orange
Where to Plant
Consolea Rubescens ‘Road Kill Cactus’ 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 Road Kill Cactu 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 Consolea Rubescens ‘Road Kill Cactus’
Road Kill Cactus can be propagated by grafting or 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 Consolea Rubescens ‘Road Kill Cactus’ By Beheadings
You can cut off the head of the succulent using clean scissors. Leave a few inches to the base to stay on the safe side. There should be enough stem on the cutting. Before replanting, wait for a few days so cutting and the base can dry. When the cutting is calloused, replant it. Don’t forget to water when the soil dries out.
How to Propagate Consolea Rubescens ‘Road Kill 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
Consolea Rubescens ‘Road Kill Cactus’ is native to Caribbean and Florida.
