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Paper Spine Cactus

Tephrocactus Articulatus

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Overview

Paper Spine Cactus (Tephrocactus articulatus) is a distinctive cluster-forming cactus, prized for its papery, harmless spines. Sphere-shaped segments grow up to 2 inches in diameter, detaching easily to propagate. This drought-tolerant cactus prefers well-draining soil, full sun to partial shade, and it thrives in zones 9-11. It's an excellent choice for rock gardens or containers, adding texture and interest with minimal maintenance.

Sun Full, HalfWater LowZones 8–11Climate Arid, Subtropical

Culture

Sun
Full, Half
Water
Low
USDA zones
8–11

Shape & size

Classification

Family
Cactaceae
Climate
Arid, Subtropical

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Photos (48)

Paper Spine Cactus (Tephrocactus Articulatus) — It's an excellent choice for rock gardens or containers, adding texture and interest with minimal maintenance
Paper Spine Cactus (Tephrocactus Articulatus) — and it thrives in zones 9-11
Paper Spine Cactus (Tephrocactus Articulatus) — Sphere-shaped segments grow up to 2 inches in diameter, detaching easily to propagate
Paper Spine Cactus (Tephrocactus Articulatus) — full sun to partial shade
Paper Spine Cactus (Tephrocactus Articulatus) — This drought-tolerant cactus prefers well-draining soil
Paper Spine Cactus (Tephrocactus Articulatus) — Paper Spine Cactus (Tephrocactus articulatus) is a distinctive cluster-forming cactus
Paper Spine Cactus (Tephrocactus Articulatus) — commonly referred to as the Paper Spine Cactus
Paper Spine Cactus (Tephrocactus Articulatus) — presents a distinctive addition to any arid landscape design
Paper Spine Cactus (Tephrocactus Articulatus) — offering a blend of textural interest and adaptability
Paper Spine Cactus (Tephrocactus Articulatus) — This cactus is characterized by its segmented growth
Paper Spine Cactus (Tephrocactus Articulatus) — with each cylindrical stem segment typically measuring about 1 to 2 inches in diameter
Paper Spine Cactus (Tephrocactus Articulatus) — Segments readily detach and contribute to this species' propagation
Paper Spine Cactus (Tephrocactus Articulatus) — These spines, despite their delicate appearance, form a protective barrier for the cactus
Paper Spine Cactus (Tephrocactus Articulatus) — which can grow up to approximately 1 inch long
Paper Spine Cactus (Tephrocactus Articulatus) — <br><br>Paper Spine Cacti are adorned with peculiar
Paper Spine Cactus (Tephrocactus Articulatus) — meaning care should be taken when situating in areas with foot traffic
Paper Spine Cactus (Tephrocactus Articulatus) — The plant exhibits a pale green to blue-green hue
Paper Spine Cactus (Tephrocactus Articulatus) — depending on sun exposure and water levels
Paper Spine Cactus (Tephrocactus Articulatus) — and flourishes under full sun to partial shade conditions
Paper Spine Cactus (Tephrocactus Articulatus) — white to pale yellow flowers
Paper Spine Cactus (Tephrocactus Articulatus) — adding seasonal interest to landscapes
Paper Spine Cactus (Tephrocactus Articulatus) — Given its drought-tolerant nature
Paper Spine Cactus (Tephrocactus Articulatus) — It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.<br><br>During the blossom season
Paper Spine Cactus (Tephrocactus Articulatus) — this cactus requires minimal watering

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