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Basic Info
Tephrocactus Articulatus is also known as the ‘Paper Spine Cactus’. As the plant matures you can expect it to reach up to around 30 cm (12″) tall and it is about 4cm (1.6″) in diameter. When it produces flowers expect yellow flowers. The main feature of the cacti is the pale green to matt green look of the stem that is covered by brown looking long stems.
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Opuntioideae
Tribe: Tephrocacteae
Genus: Tephrocactus
Care and Propagation Information
Watering
Tephrocactus Articulatus ‘Paper Spine Cactus’ 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 Paper Spine 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 Tephrocactus Articulatus ‘Paper Spine Cactus’
This succulent type is a cactus that most people should care for plus it is a nice addition to your outside garden!
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Quick Facts:
- Prefers full sun
- Can be grown outdoor
- Grows 30 cm (12″) tall
- Grows up to 4 cm (1.6″) wide
- Can die easily if overwatered see: How to Water Succulent Plants
- Does not handle cold well
- Prefers Zone 8b-10b -9.4°C (40°F)
- Best propagated by seeds
- Flowers are white to yellow
Where to Plant
Tephrocactus Articulatus ‘Paper Spine 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 8b-10b which is around -9.4°C (40°F). If you live in a cold area, it is better to plant Paper Spine Cactus in an indoor environment. As long as it gets enough sunlight, the plant will grow happily.
How to Propagate Tephrocactus Articulatus ‘Paper Spine Cactus’
Paper Spine 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.
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 Tephrocactus Articulatus ‘Paper Spine 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
Paper Spine Cactus is native to western Argentina (around the provinces of Cordoba, Catamarca, Mendoza, La Rioja, San Luis, Salta, and Santiago Del Estero).
