Emm's Plant House

Lobivia van der hoeven Ø5.5cm

£10.00 GBP

Sale Sold out

Taxes included.

Pot Size Ø5.5cm

Quantity

Lobivia van der Hoeven is a beautiful cactus known for its compact size, bright flowers, and globular shape. This species is part of the Lobivia genus, which is well-known for its stunning, colorful blooms. The plant’s short, spiny stems are often covered with colorful, funnel-shaped flowers that bloom in vibrant shades of red, pink, or orange. Due to its stunning appearance and ease of care, Lobivia van der Hoeven is a popular choice for both cactus enthusiasts and beginner gardeners alike.

Full Botanical Name: Lobivia van der Hoeven
Common Names: Van der Hoeven’s Lobivia
Country and/or Region of Origin: Native to the highlands of Bolivia and northern Argentina
Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Grows in dry, rocky soils at high altitudes, where it experiences full sun exposure and minimal rainfall

Care Guide

Care Guide:

Light: Prefers full sunlight to thrive. A sunny windowsill or outdoor garden that gets ample sunlight during the day is ideal for encouraging blooming.

Ideal Room: Suitable for bright windowsills, patios, or outdoor cactus gardens. It can also be kept indoors in a sunny spot or under grow lights if sunlight is limited.

Feeding: Fertilize sparingly, once every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring to summer) with a diluted cactus or succulent fertilizer to support healthy growth and vibrant flowers.

Humidity: Tolerates dry air and is perfect for homes with low humidity. Like many cacti, it thrives in dry conditions and doesn’t require additional humidity.

Ideal Temperature: Best kept between 70°F and 85°F (21°C to 29°C). It is cold-hardy to about 30°F (-1°C) and can tolerate light frost but should be protected from freezing temperatures.

Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure the pot has good drainage and never let it sit in standing water.

Pet/Child Safe: Non-toxic to pets and children, making it a safe option for households with animals or young children. However, the spines can be sharp, so handle with care.

Soil Type: Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix. A soil mix containing sand or perlite helps ensure good drainage and prevents water retention around the roots.

Propagation: Propagate by stem cuttings or offsets. Allow the cuttings to callus over for a few days before planting them in dry, well-draining soil to encourage rooting.

Eventual Height and Spread: Typically grows up to 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) tall and about 4-5 inches (10-13 cm) wide, making it a small and compact cactus ideal for small spaces.

Growth Rate: Slow-growing, typical of many Lobivia species. It may take several years to reach its full size, but its beautiful flowers bloom once it matures.

Pests and Treatment: Generally resistant to pests, but mealybugs, aphids, or scale insects can sometimes be attracted. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil to protect the plant.

Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot with good drainage, and ensure the new pot is slightly larger to allow for healthy root development.

Pruning: Prune dead or damaged stems to maintain the plant’s appearance. Lobivias require minimal pruning but benefit from occasional maintenance to keep the plant looking tidy.

Air Purification: While not specifically known for air-purifying qualities, Lobivia van der Hoeven adds an attractive and natural element to any space, making it a great decorative plant.

Folklore: Cacti, including Lobivia species, are believed to represent endurance and resilience. Some cultures consider them symbols of protection and good fortune, as they thrive in harsh, desert-like conditions.

View full details