Pterocactus tuberosus Winged Cactus 7016

Latin name: Pterocactus tuberosus
Common name: Winged Cactus, Tuberous Pterocactus
This unusual cactus is native to arid regions of Argentina. It grows from underground tubers that store water, producing slender cylindrical stems above ground. These stems are fragile, often breaking off easily, which is a natural propagation method. The plant is highly adapted to desert climates and is prized for its unusual form and survival strategy. 🌵
FLOWER DETAILS
In summer, it produces bright yellow to orange funnel-shaped flowers, often appearing at the tips of its stems. The blossoms are cheerful and eye-catching, contrasting beautifully with the gray-green stems. Fruits are winged, a unique feature that aids seed dispersal in the wild. 🌸
CARE INSTRUCTIONS
☀️ Light: Full sun to very bright light; thrives in outdoor conditions with plenty of sun.
💧 Water: Water sparingly; allow soil to dry completely between waterings. With its tuberous roots, the plant is very drought-tolerant. Keep dry in winter dormancy.
🌡️ Humidity: Prefers dry air, not suitable for high-humidity environments.
🪴 Soil: Use a very gritty, well-draining cactus mix (sand, pumice, gravel).
🏺 Potting: Best grown in shallow pots to accommodate tubers. Handle stems carefully, as they detach easily.
🌱 Growth rate: Moderate; stems elongate in the growing season and die back in winter. The tuber persists and re-sprouts each year.
🐾 Pet friendly: Yes — generally considered non-toxic, though stems may have sharp spines.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE IT?
A fascinating cactus with unusual tuberous roots and easily detachable stems.
Seasonal yellow-orange blooms provide a bright, cheerful display.
Perfect for collectors of rare and oddball desert plants.
AT ORANGE’S HOME
We admire the resilience of this cactus—its fragile stems hide the strength of a tuber deep below. Each spring, when new growth rises and flowers burst open, it feels like witnessing a quiet miracle of survival and beauty.