How to Grow Great Ariocarpus

Growing succulent plants can be an enjoyable hobby. There are many unique varieties that can add color and texture to your plant collection. Plants within the variety called ariocarpus are no exception. Here are some tips to help you grow any of the varieties of ariocarpus you choose to add to your collection.

Ariocarpus is pronounced air-ree-oh-CAR-pus. It is in the family of Cactaceae and the group Echinocactus. This family of succulents originated in Texas and Mexico.

The plant comes in a variety of colors from olive-brown to chalky gray. It is round with a flat top and about 6 to 10 inches in diameter. Each plant will have tubercles that are a triangle shape and appear to be almost leaf-like. There are no spines on this plant. However, there are a few occasional bristles that appear on the tops of the tubercles.

The flowers of the ariocarpus come in several different colors. They include pink, purple and yellow. They will also vary in size from 1 ¼ inches up to 3 inches in diameter. They may also very in shape. Some of the are urn-shaped and some are wheel-shaped. Flowers appear in the center of the plant during the months of autumn.

These plants are usually propagated using seeds. But, the grower has to be patient. It takes 7 to 10 years for the plant to look like an ariocarpus. This plant prefers gritty, rich soil. Be sure to place the container where the planter can get bright light. It can tolerate average humidity levels. This succulent can be moderately difficult to grow.

It is best to put or leave your ariocarpus in a pot that is too small for it. There should be no more than half an inch of room between the plant and the container you have placed it in. It will need abundant watering from April to the of September. But, from October through March it will need much less as these are the months it will be dormant.

There are several species of ariocarpus that are recommended. The first is A. fissuratus. It has brownish-green tubercles. The flowers of this species are light magenta in color.

A. kotschoubeyanus is another recommended species. It has dar olive-green tubercles. It has flowers that are white, rose or light purple. Of all the species of ariocarpus, this is the easiest to get to flower.

Another recommended species is A. retusus. It is commonly called "seven-stars". It has gray or blue-green tubercles and white flowers.

The last of the recommended species of ariocarpus is A. trigonus. It has dark green tubercles and yellow or cream flowers. This species is the largest in the genus.

A specimen of ariocarpus will make a wonderful addition to your plant and succulent collection. It might not be a plant for beginners. However, it will be worth the extra effort. Hopefully, these tips will help you successfully grow whatever species of ariocarpus you choose to add to your home garden.