Artichoke cactus

Artichoke cactus key facts

Growing Difficulty

Advanced

Lifespan

Long-lived perennial (little published data on lifespan); takes 7-8 years to flower

Size

15 cm or more across, growing flat and level with the ground

Watering

Very little fertiliser

Light & Placement

It needs good sun to stay compact and flat. Keep it well ventilated at all times, including the rest period, somewhere that does not trap humidity.

Watering

Cacti are grown much like summer-growing succulents. Water sparingly and infrequently from March to October; too much water makes the stem elongate and lose its natural shape. Keep it completely dry in winter or whenever night temperatures stay below 10°C.

Temperature & Overwintering

Kept dry it reportedly survives brief cold to about -4°C, but winter it dry and frost-free. Humid air during dormancy is harmful.

Soil & Repotting

Use a very free-draining mineral mix with little organic matter, in a pot deep enough for the thick taproot.

Propagation

It is propagated almost only from seed. Seedlings are tiny and slow, reaching only 3-5 mm in their first year or two and taking 7-8 years to reach flowering size; grafting onto columnar stock is often used to speed growth.

Pests & Cautions

It is a CITES Appendix I species. Transfers within Japan require a registration certificate under the Act on Conservation of Endangered Species (including plants propagated in Japan), so always confirm the certificate accompanies the plant when buying or receiving one.

About Artichoke cactus

Teikan, the artichoke cactus, is the only species in its genus, with spiralling triangular tubercles. It grows 15 cm or more across and flowers after seven to eight years.

7 things to know before growing Artichoke cactus

1. 1Advanced care, and a registration certificate is required

   Teikan is rated for experienced growers. It grows slowly and can suffer if it is watered carelessly. It is listed in CITES Appendix I and is an Internationally Endangered Species under Japan's Act on Conservation of Endangered Species (種の保存法), so any transfer within Japan requires a registration certificate, including for plants propagated in Japan. In principle, plants without a certificate cannot be sold, transferred, or displayed or advertised for sale. Always confirm the certificate when buying.

2. 2Where to place it

   Give it bright light and good airflow. Keep it out of the rain, for example under eaves or on a bright windowsill, and shade or move it if intense midsummer sun starts to damage the plant. Because it stays low to the ground, set it on a shelf or stand rather than the floor so air can circulate around it.

3. 3Water only when dry

   Water only after the soil has dried out completely. During the warm growing season, give small amounts; cut back as temperatures fall and keep it fairly dry in winter. Pour water at the base rather than over the crown so the woolly top does not stay wet.

4. 4Soil and pot

   Use a fast-draining mineral mix with plenty of pumice or similar inorganic grit and little organic matter. It develops a thick root, so choose a pot deep enough to hold it. Go easy on fertilizer.

5. 5Repot with care

   Because growth is slow, frequent repotting is unnecessary. Repot only when the roots are crowded or the soil has broken down, and do it in the warm growing season. Work quickly to avoid damaging the thick root, and wait a few days before watering afterwards.

6. 6Seasonal care

   In summer, heat and humidity can make the plant stuffy, so keep air moving and shade it on days of harsh sun. In winter, protect it from frost and cold rain and keep it fairly dry in a bright spot indoors. When you resume watering in spring, start with small amounts and watch how it responds.

7. 7Choosing a plant

   Look for a firm plant with neat, spiralling tubercles and a healthy woolly crown. Check for discoloration, soft spots, damage, and any wobble at the base, and make sure the plant comes with its registration certificate. Since it takes seven to eight years to bloom, ask the seller about the plant's size and age if flowers matter to you.

Frequently asked questions about Artichoke cactus

Q.Can a beginner grow it?

A.Its difficulty is rated for experienced growers. Growth is slow and watering needs care, so it is best to get comfortable with other cacti first.

Q.When does it flower?

A.It produces white flowers in summer, but it takes seven to eight years to reach flowering. Young plants will not bloom right away, so be patient.

Q.How large does it grow?

A.It reaches 15 cm or more in diameter but stays flat, growing close to ground level rather than tall. When choosing a pot, think about the depth the root needs and the width of the plant rather than height.

Q.How long does it live?

A.It is a long-lived perennial, but there is little documentation on its lifespan, so a specific number of years cannot be given. With appropriate care, it can be a long-term companion.

Q.How should I treat the woolly crown?

A.The wool is a natural feature of the plant and does not need to be removed. Water trapped in it can dry slowly and lead to damage, so water at the base of the plant instead.

Handy Growing Tools for Artichoke cactus

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