The genus “Denmoza” is an anagram form of the northwestern province of Mendoza. “Rhodacantha” comes from the old Greek term “red spine”. Denmoza Rhodacantha is native to the mountains of Argentina and thrives in Eastern slopes and foothills.
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Denmoza |
| Scientific Name: | Denmoza Rhodacantha |
| Other Name: | Erythrocephala |
| Growth Season: | Summer Season |
| Preferred Temperature: | 20 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit |
| Hardiness Zone: | USDA Hardiness Zones 9a to 11b |
| Average Mature Height & Width: | 1.5 centimeters tall and 30 centimeters wide |
| Dormancy: | Winter Season |
| Toxicity: | Non-toxic to both animals and humans. |
Denmoza Rhodacantha’s Physical Characteristics
This succulent is barrel-type and can stay globular long before turning to a short column shape. The stems vary from pale to dark green and are fully covered with red to brownish spines. The radial spines also change from reddish to gray as the succulent matures. Typically, the spines are also slightly curved.
As the succulent matures, the number of spines also increases. The stems also have ribs and areolas. Denmoza Rhodacantha is considered a leafless succulent. Bilateral symmetrical flowers will generally appear on top of each stem.
Flowers are bright red to brownish and 7.5 centimeters long. The floral tubes are slightly open to see the stigma and red filaments from the outside. Denmoza Rhodacantha also produces globose fruits. The fruits are usually dry at maturity and have short hair-like spines.
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Denmoza Rhodacantha Care
Denmoza Rhodacantha is slowly growing succulent. It is crucial to water your plant sufficiently during the hot season. However, ensure you are still draining it well, as it can be susceptible to fungal infections.
It is advisable to check if the soil is arid before watering. It can be watered every 3 to 4 days during the summer. Avoid watering your Denmoza Rhodacantha during the winter season. This succulent thrives under full sunlight; however, slightly shaded areas are advisable during summer as direct harsh sunlight might burn it.
Use a well-draining soil mixture for your Denmoza Rhodacantha. You may add gravel soil, pumice, and peat to an ordinary cactus potting mixture to improve its drainage capability.
Feeding your succulent once a month during its growing season is also advisable. Feeding helps to provide enough nutrients to your Denmoza Rhodacantha and to promote overall growth.
DO YOU KNOW? Caring (propagating, pruning/trimming, beheading, watering, …) is a set of skills that is widely applicable to succulents. Read the in-depth guide here >>
Richard Miller – Succulent City
Denmoza Rhodacantha Growth
You may propagate your Denmoza Rhodacantha through seeds and cuttings. When using the cutting method, make sure that you use clean garden scissors and allow the cuttings to be calloused for a few days. Drying the cuttings avoids the transfer of any existing bacteria.
Propagation through seeds might take time as Denmoza Rhodacantha is also known as a slow growing succulent. Expect to wait around 20 days for seeds to germinate. To maintain the beautiful appearance of your Denmoza Rhodacantha, pruning is advisable.
Remove any dying or dead stems of flowers. Remember to use gloves or proper tools to avoid getting stung by the spines.
You may need to repot your Denmoza Rhodacantha every 2 to 3 years. Repotting helps to ensure that your succulent has enough space to grow fully. When repotting, it is also advisable to use fresh soil to promote proper drainage and avoid clogging.
Fortunately, Denmoza Rhodacantha is not prone to pests. However, you should check on any fungal diseases as this succulent might suffer from them more often.
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ABOUT ME
Richard | Editor-in-chief at Succulent City
Hey everyone! I’m Richard. Welcome to my blog, which is all about succulents, cacti, and a bit about air plants. Ten years back, in 2013, I began my journey with succulents. It started as a simple hobby, crafting and selling charming succulent-themed pins and decorations. But as time passed, my fascination with these remarkable plants grew, and I gained extensive knowledge about them. Therefore, Succulent City is the blog as you see it is now. Enjoy your visit and happly planting!