Copiapoa Tenuissima Cactus 3” pot

Copiapoa tenuissima is a fascinating cactus species native to the arid coastal regions of northern Chile, particularly the Atacama Desert. It’s prized among collectors for its delicate, slender appearance and subtle beauty. Here’s a detailed overview:

• Growth form: Small, clumping cactus. It often forms dense mats of individual stems.
• Stems: Very thin, cylindrical, light green to gray-green, often covered with fine white spines that can give a “frosted” look.
• Size: Typically 5–10 cm tall, but can slowly form larger clumps over years.
• Spines: Radial spines are fine and hair-like; central spines are usually absent or very short.
• Flowers: Yellow, funnel-shaped, appearing in summer. They are small (about 1–2 cm in diameter) but striking against the spiny body.
• Fruit: Small, green to brown, sometimes with tiny spines.

Cultivation

• Light: Full sun to very bright light. Copiapoa tenuissima thrives in strong light but may need gradual acclimation if moved indoors.
• Water: Very low water requirements. Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Overwatering is the main threat.
• Soil: Extremely well-draining, gritty cactus mix. Often includes sand, perlite, or pumice.
• Temperature: Prefers warm conditions, can tolerate some cold but not frost. Keep above 5°C (41°F) in winter.
• Propagation: Typically propagated from offsets or seeds. Clumping stems make it easier to separate offsets carefully.

Notes

• Slow-growing: This species grows slowly and may take years to form impressive clumps.
• Collector’s favorite: Its elegant spines and delicate stems make it highly prized among cactus enthusiasts.