Paper Spine Cactus
Paper Spine Cactus is one of the most unusual-looking cacti ever. Take a look at the image below!
The white ribbons you see are its signature papery spines that are flat and smooth to the touch. It also has strange pinecone-shaped stems that are loosely stacked on together due to it being a variant of the Pine Cone Cactus.
If you're looking for a strange-looking desert plant that's also very easy to propagate, this may be the one for you.
Botanical name: Tephrocactus articulatus var papyracanthus
Other names: Paper Spine Cholla Cactus, Opuntia papyracantha
Paper Spine Cactus in detail
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Paper Spine Cactus Appearance
Paper Spine Cactus is covered with long, white spines with papery texture and ribbon-like waves. Although the paper spines are flat and smooth, glochids- very short barbed spines that hook onto other things that come into contact- are found in the areoles of the stems as well.
The stems have irregular, oblong shapes that look like pine cones. These stems like to stay low to the ground, usually within 1.5 feet. They are loosely adjoined and can't sustain too much pressure, so stems will eventually fall over, and root themselves given the right conditions. Because they fall over on their own, propagation is a breeze.
Flowers are very showy, being large and bright white with a yellow core, providing a nice contrast with the dark green stems.
Paper Spine Cactus Landscaping Tips
Paper Spine Cactus looks great in pots, which keep a tidy appearance. We recommend grouping it with a variety of other plants for visual interest.
Since they're on the smaller side, you may want to keep them in an area where you can see this unusual plant up close.
Slow growing habits.
If planting in ground, keep in mind that it has lots of tiny glochids that will stick to the skin if someone or an animal were to make contact. Also, the stems break apart easily and will roll over, slowly spreading in the landscape if left untouched.
Paper Spine Cactus Origin
Western Argentina, among the Andes mountains, where it is dry and warm
Paper Spine Cactus Care
Caring for Paper Spine Cactus is very easy, and the instructions are the same for the typical cactus. Be careful not to overwater the plant.
Soil: Loose, well draining soil that is lightly fertile.
Temperature: Can withstand temperatures down to frost (= 32 degrees) for a short period of time. Does very well in heat.
Water: Occasional, deep watering. Allow the soil to completely dry out between waterings. Either use a moisture meter or stick your finger through the soil to gauge the moisture level. It’s better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering.
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Paper Spine Cactus for sale at the nursery
Paper Spine Cactus Problems
Pests: Paper Spine Cactus has minimal pests. Fungal diseases from root rot, dry rot, and harsh weather conditions.
Signs of overwatering: Drooping, squishy texture
Signs of too little water: Shriveling, drying skin
Signs of too much sun: Burning, scarring, fading color
Signs of too little sun: Etiolation, discoloring.
Paper Spine Cactus Propagation
Paper Spine Cactus is one of the easiest plants that you can propagate and share with others.
Simply wait for the stems of the cactus to fall over once the plant has grown to about a foot tall. You can also gently knock a stem over if it is not rigidly attached to the plant.
FAQ
How much does paper spine cactus cost?
At our nursery, Paper Spine Cactus costs $15 for a 1 gallon container, $45 for a 5 gallon container, and $105 for a 15 gallon container.
Prices are subject to change. Please contact us for the most up-to-date information on pricing. We may have larger sizes available. We provide installation services locally at a separate cost.
Does paper spine cactus flower?
Yes, and when it does, the blooms are gorgeous and magical.
Does paper spine cactus have spines?
Yes. Paper Spine Cactus has long, white papery spines that are harmless. It also has tiny barbed spines called glochids that can hook onto your skin.
SUMMARY
| SIZE (H X W) | 2 feet X 4 feet |
|---|---|
| FLOWER COLOR | White and Yellow |
| FLOWER SEASON | Spring |
| EXPOSURE | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| WATER | Low |
| GROWTH RATE | Slow |
| HARDINESS | 15º F, USDA Zone 8 |
| PRUNING | None |