Overview
Notocactus tabularis (Monv.) N.P. Taylor is a cactus species that belongs to the family Cactaceae. This plant is commonly known as the 'table cactus' due to its flat, disk-like growth habit. It is a popular ornamental plant among cactus lovers and collectors.
Origin
The plant is native to Brazil, specifically the states of Minas Gerais and Bahia. It grows in high-altitude habitats with dry and rocky soils.
Appearance
The Notocactus tabularis is a small cactus that typically grows up to 30 cm in diameter. It has a flattened, circular shape, and its surface is covered with prominent ribs that are divided into small tubercles. The spines of the plant are yellow or light brown and are curved toward the center of the cactus.
Uses
The Notocactus tabularis is primarily cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its unique shape and attractive appearance. It is also used for landscaping in rock gardens and xeriscape landscapes. Its small size and low maintenance requirements make it ideal for small indoor spaces and apartments.
Light Requirements
The Notocactus tabularis plant prefers bright sunlight. It needs at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. Make sure to place the plant in a location where it can receive enough light. If the plant doesn't get enough light, it may turn yellow and stop growing.
Temperature Requirements
The recommended temperature range for Notocactus tabularis is between 60°F (16°C) to 90°F (32°C). This plant can tolerate high temperatures, but it cannot survive frost or freezing temperatures. During winter, it's best to keep the plant in a room with a temperature that doesn't fall below 50°F (10°C).
Soil Requirements
The Notocactus tabularis plant needs well-draining soil. It requires soil that is rich in nutrients and has excellent drainage. A mix of cactus potting soil, sand, and perlite can provide the perfect combination. A fast-draining soil mix helps in preventing root rot and other diseases that can affect the plant's health.
Cultivation and Care of Notocactus Tabularis
Notocactus Tabularis is a delightful cactus that originated from South America. This type of cactus is easy to maintain and suitable for beginners. Here are some tips and guidelines that you can follow to grow and care for Notocactus Tabularis:
Light and Temperature Requirements
This type of cactus requires a lot of sunlight to grow successfully. You should place your Notocactus Tabularis in an area that receives a lot of direct sunlight. A south-facing window is the best location for your cactus. It can also tolerate hot and dry conditions, so keeping it outdoors during the summer months is ideal. However, it should be kept indoors when it gets cold outside.
Watering Needs
Notocactus Tabularis is a desert cactus that requires minimal watering. During the growing season, which is during the spring and summer months, you should water your cactus once a week. However, during the winter season, you should water it sparingly, only once a month or less. Always make sure to allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is deadly to cactus plants.
Fertilization
Fertilizing your Notocactus Tabularis is not necessary. However, you can apply a cactus fertilizer diluted to half-strength once a month during the growing season to help encourage growth. Avoid overfertilizing, as it can damage the roots and lead to poor plant growth.
Pruning
Notocactus Tabularis doesn't require regular pruning, but you should remove any dead, damaged, or diseased parts as soon as possible to prevent the spread of disease. You can also prune to restrain the cactus's size and keep it from growing too big. Use sterilized pruning shears to cut off the unwanted parts, and make sure to leave a small stump to prevent infection.
Following these tips will help ensure your Notocactus Tabularis thrives and remains healthy. With proper care, this beautiful cactus can grow up to a foot tall and five inches wide.
Propagation of Notocactus tabularis
Notocactus tabularis (Monv.) N.P. Taylor, commonly known as the table cactus, is a slow-growing, low-maintenance succulent that is native to South America. Propagation of this plant is relatively easy and can be done through a number of methods.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagating Notocactus tabularis from seeds is the easiest and the most common method to increase the number of plants. Sow ripe seeds in well-draining soil, and cover them lightly with soil. The seeds should germinate in one to three weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagating Notocactus tabularis by cuttings is also a viable option. Cut a healthy stem from the parent plant using a sharp, clean knife. Allow the cutting to callus over in a dry, shaded area for one week. Once the cut surface has dried, plant the cutting in well-draining soil and water lightly. The cutting should take root in three to six weeks.
Propagation by Offsets
Notocactus tabularis can also be propagated through offsets. Wait until an offset has grown to at least one-third of the size of the parent plant before removing it. Use a sharp, clean knife to gently cut the offset from the main plant, being careful not to damage any roots. Allow the offset to callus over for one week before planting it in well-draining soil. Water lightly and keep the soil slightly moist until the offset has taken root.
Disease and Pest Management for Notocactus Tabularis
Notocactus tabularis, also known as the table cactus, is a small, slow-growing cactus that is generally easy to care for. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can damage or kill it if left unchecked. Here are some common issues that may affect N. tabularis and how to manage them.
Diseases
Brown rot: This fungal disease can cause brown, sunken spots that may spread and eventually kill affected areas of the cactus. It is usually caused by overwatering or high humidity. To manage brown rot, remove affected areas with a sterilized knife, improve air circulation around the plant, and let the soil dry out before watering again.
Root rot: Overwatering and poorly-draining soil can lead to root rot, a fungal disease that causes the roots to turn black and mushy, leading to wilting and death of the plant. To prevent root rot, be sure to use a well-draining soil and water the plant only when the top inch of soil is dry. If you suspect root rot, stop watering and remove the plant from the soil. Cut off any black, mushy roots and let the plant dry out for a few days before repotting in fresh soil.
Pests
Mealybugs: These small, white insects can infest the cactus and cause it to weaken and deform. Mealybugs can be managed by manually removing them from the plant with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill mealybugs.
Spider mites: These tiny, spider-like pests can suck the juices from the cactus and cause it to turn yellow and wither. To manage spider mites, wash the plant with a strong jet of water or treat it with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Be sure to spray the undersides of the leaves, where spider mites tend to gather.
Cactus weevils: These beetles can cause extensive damage to cactus plants, including N. tabularis. They chew on the cactus pads and can even bore into the plant, resulting in wilting and death. To manage cactus weevils, handpick them off the plant and destroy them. You can also treat the plant with an insecticide that contains carbaryl or permethrin.
Regular monitoring and maintaining a healthy growing environment can help prevent diseases and pests from affecting your Notocactus tabularis. It is also important to avoid overwatering and to provide good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal diseases.
