Coryphantha macromeris — an easy houseplant, prefers full sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Coryphantha macromeris

Coryphantha Macromeris

Updated · 17 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Coryphantha macromeris, the nipple beehive cactus, is a species of cactus in the United States and Mexico. In the Chihuhuan Desert, it is common and has a wide range. In the United States, it occurs naturally in Texas and New Mexico. It prefers to grown in the shade under other larger plants, growing in irregular clusters or mounds. In late summer, it blooms with purple or pink flowers and then bears green fruit.

A note from PlantMom

The Nipple beehive cactus has strong resistance to disease and can tolerate typical care without becoming ill easily. That said, it can be vulnerable to mealybugs; these pests may cause some harm but usually do not pose a major threat. Regarding care, the Nipple beehive cactus is drought tolerant and does not require frequent watering. It can endure long stretches without water and needs little fertilizer. However, it is especially prone to root rot if kept in poor light and watered excessively. Overall, the Nipple beehive cactus is a good choice for people who prefer spending less time on plant care, though it remains important to know and meet its basic needs. It is particularly well suited to those who are away for long periods and might forget to water regularly.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Coryphantha Macromeris.

Light

Nipple beehive cactus does best with plenty of light for most of the day, though it also tolerates occasional shade. Ample sunlight supports its healthy growth. Both excessive and insufficient light can hinder its development or cause damage, which reflects its origin in an environment with strong sun exposure.

Water

The nipple beehive cactus flourishes in arid environments due to its high drought tolerance, needing water only every three weeks. It prefers full sun and is usually grown outdoors. As an evergreen plant, the nipple beehive cactus stores water in its stem, which boosts its resilience to temperature fluctuations and low rainfall.

Temperature

The nipple beehive cactus originates from habitats with temperatures between 59 and 100 °F (15 to 38 ℃). It prefers moderate conditions and adapts well to seasonal fluctuations. It tolerates hot summers, but excessive heat should be avoided.

Fertilizer

For the Nipple beehive cactus, light applications of fertilizer once or twice a year during the growing season are sufficient. Do not fertilize in winter or in summer when the plant is dormant. Reduce feeding for recently repotted plants and wait a couple of months after repotting before applying fertilizer. Fertilizing promotes healthy growth and encourages flowering.

Pruning

The nipple beehive cactus requires minimal pruning. It's important to remove any withered flowers and branches so that the plant can direct nutrients towards healthy growth.

Pot & Repot

Repot Nipple beehive cactus in spring or summer, selecting a pot slightly larger than the current one that has good drainage. Use a well-draining, sandy or gritty cactus mix. Handle the plant carefully to avoid its spikes. Allow the cactus to dry out before repotting to help prevent root rot. After repotting, wait for a week before watering so the roots can heal.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Shrub
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Coryphantha
Family
Cactaceae
Hardiness Zone
8-12
Mature Height
25 cm
Mature Spread
61 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Semi-evergreen
Flower Color
Pink, Yellow
Flower Size
5.08 cm to 6.35 cm
Bloom Time
Summer, Early fall
Planting Time
Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Late summer, Fall
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Nipple Beehive Cactus en Big Needle Cactus en Big Nipple Cory-Cactus en Dona Ana en Long Mamma
FREQUENTLY ASKED

Reader questions.

How should I water my Nipple beehive cactus?

Here are some tips for watering your Nipple beehive cactus: - Water from the bottom to ensure proper absorption by the roots. - Avoid spilling water on the top part, as this can lead to diseases and fungi. - If you have irrigation systems, use small sprinklers specifically designed for Nipple beehive cacti. - Choose revolving sprinklers that allow you to change the water delivery patterns as needed. - Don't use sprinklers on windy days to avoid water wastage. - Whether your cactus is in a pot or in your garden, use the soak and dry method for watering. - This method ensures even distribution of moisture and promotes healthier growth. - Consider adding a built-in drainage system for your cactus. - Use layers of porous materials like recycled glass or hydro stones beneath the soil. - These layers will act as reservoirs for excess water, but be careful not to overwater.

What is the best time to put fertilizer on my Nipple beehive cactus?

The Nipple beehive cactus requires only a small amount of fertilizer during its growing season. It is recommended to fertilize it 1-2 times a year, specifically in the spring and autumn when it is actively growing. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant periods of winter and summer. When repotting the plant, use less fertilizer and wait a few months before resuming fertilization.

How much sunlight does the Nipple beehive cactus need to grow?

The Nipple beehive cactus thrives with at least 6 hours of sun daily, but more is preferred. While the actual minimum can differ based on sunlight intensity and other factors, it is unlikely for the Nipple beehive cactus to receive excessive sunlight. In fact, it handles up to 14 hours of sun per day without any issues.

What temperature is best for your Nipple beehive cactus?

To keep the Nipple beehive cactus healthy, it is best to maintain a specific range of conditions. The ideal temperatures for this cactus are between 75-90℉ (25-32℃). During the early winter, it's important to ensure that the temperature doesn't drop below 75℉ (25℃) for the Nipple beehive cactus. If necessary, you can bring it indoors to provide better protection from extreme temperatures. Although the Nipple beehive cactus can withstand some extreme conditions, it is not ideal for it to be exposed to low temperatures, such as 50℉ (15℃). If you anticipate winter weather conditions, it is advisable to bring the cactus indoors.

What should I do if I give my Nipple beehive cactus too much or too little water?

If you notice that the Nipple beehive cactus is turning yellow, this could be due to either underwatering or overwatering. Overly wet soil can lead to fungal infections, so it's important to allow everything to dry out and avoid overwatering. On the other hand, if there is not enough water, you may see yellow tips forming on the stems and branches. Before purchasing a Nipple beehive cactus, it's advisable to check if the soil drains properly or if it's sandy. Poor drainage can result in insufficient water intake for the plant in the future. Overwatering, especially with rain, can cause the Nipple beehive cactus to die. For optimal watering, it is recommended to use rainwater or distilled water as they contain fewer minerals. Signs of excessive moisture include squishy stems, drooping growth, and discolored parts. To help the plant recover, give it time to dry out and consider transferring it to a different container to prevent root rot and dripping. If planted outside, it may also benefit from being placed in a pot, particularly during the winter.

Why is it important to fertilize my Nipple beehive cactus?

Fertilizing the Nipple beehive cactus provides nutrients to the growing medium, supporting healthy growth. Even though it already stores water and nutrients, applying plant food during the growing season can enhance its development. Fertilization can also stimulate mature specimens to produce blooms during this time.

What kind of sunlight does Nipple beehive cactus require?

The nipple beehive cactus thrives in bright sunlight. It can do well with direct light or bright indirect sun. While it may tolerate partial sunlight, more sunlight is usually preferred for this type of cactus.

How do I change the temperature for my Nipple beehive cactus as it grows?

The nipple beehive cactus goes through different stages of growth. First, the dormant seed starts to sprout and becomes a seedling. For the seeds to germinate, they require specific conditions, such as a temperature of 75-90℉ (25-32℃). During the summer, when the temperature is around 85℉ (30℃), it is the best time for the cactus to grow vigorously. To ensure it receives enough sunlight, you can move the cactus from indoors to a sunlit location during the hot summer months.

How often should I water my cactus with a Nipple beehive?

Watering frequency for succulents can vary depending on the season. In the summer and spring, you typically only need to water them once every two to three weeks. However, during the winter and fall, it's best to reduce or avoid watering altogether since these plants become dormant. It's important to let the soil dry completely before watering again. It's better to slightly underwater than to overwater. When potted, deep watering at intervals promotes healthier soil growth. When planted outdoors, avoid watering lightly as this encourages shallow root growth. Instead, wait a few weeks and only water when the surrounding soil is too dry.

When is it a bad time to fertilize my Nipple beehive cactus?

The Nipple beehive cactus, like other plants, goes through a dormancy period. During this time, it's best to avoid using fertilizer. The plant stops growing in both summer and winter, so it's important to refrain from applying fertilizer then. Additionally, after repotting in the spring, it's a good idea to wait a couple of months before resuming fertilization.

Do I need to keep the Nipple beehive cactus out of the sun to protect it?

The nipple beehive cactus is a plant that thrives in extremely hot and sunny environments. It is naturally well-suited to these conditions and doesn't require protection from the sun. However, if you plan on moving your nipple beehive cactus to a location with intense sunlight, it's important to proceed with caution. The plant needs time to adjust to different conditions, so it's best to start by gradually exposing it to a few hours of sunlight each day. Over time, you can increase the duration of sun exposure. Once the plant has adapted, most varieties of nipple beehive cactus will be able to withstand full sun without the need for protection.

How can I make sure my Nipple cactus stays warm during cold seasons?

To protect your Nipple beehive cactus from harsh winter conditions, it is recommended to bring it indoors. Some people choose to use grow lights to ensure the plant gets enough sunlight, but if your home is not very dark, you may not need these lights. Just make sure to place your plants where they can receive the most sunlight possible. This should provide enough light for the Nipple beehive cactus to thrive during winter. If you have multiple cacti, rotate their positions to ensure they all get enough sunlight. If you live in a cold northern area, be cautious about placing the cactus too close to a window as extreme cold can damage them.

PLATES
Coryphantha macromeris leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Coryphantha macromeris leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
Coryphantha macromeris flower
PLATE 03 · flower
Coryphantha macromeris flower
PLATE 04 · flower
Coryphantha macromeris habit
PLATE 05 · habit
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

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