Consolea

Its name was chosen in honor of Michelangelo Consul, an important Italian botanist. Contrary to most cacti, it is a cactus of an unusual shape, as it has a flat and elongated stem, from which rounded and flattened segments branch off. These plants are often equipped with dense and rather dangerous spines, which the plant has developed to defend itself in its native places; other species, on the other hand, are completely and unexpectedly devoid of quills. However, what easily distinguishes it from any other genera and makes it highly appreciated is its peculiar appearance, which is extremely ornamental! Here are some tips for its appropriate care and cultivation: Consolea is a plant which likes an exposure to full sun in rather airy locations. It is preferable to keep it at mild temperatures and never below 3 °C, for this reason it is recommended to shelter it during the winter period. Water moderately and only when the soil is completely dry. It is enough to water it once a week in spring and summer, reduce it to once every two months in autumn .Suspend completely the watering in winter in order to allow the plant to enter its dormancy. The best soil is a well draining one, for example formed by a mix of peat and pumice so that water does not stagnate. They do not need frequent fertilization, it is sufficient to dilute a specific fertilizer with watering once a year.