Also known as Thornber's Fishook · Thornber's Nipple Cactus
Cochemiea thornberi is a solitary cactus with distinctive hooked spines, native to northwestern Mexico. It produces vibrant orange-red flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Prefers bright, direct sunlight.
75% intensity
Protect from intense midday sun in very hot climates.
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings.
25% intensity
Reduce watering in fall and winter.
Well-draining cactus or succulent mix
50% intensity
Thrives in warm temperatures during the growing season.
75% intensity
Tolerates cooler temperatures in winter dormancy, but protect from frost.
Fertilize sparingly during the growing season.
25% intensity
Use a balanced cactus fertilizer diluted by half.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry. During the growing season (spring and summer), water more frequently.
Reduce watering significantly in autumn and winter, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. Ensure good drainage.
Pruning is generally not required for Cochemiea thornberi unless removing dead or damaged stems. If propagation is desired, stems can be cut and allowed to callus before planting.
Wear protective gloves as the spines are sharp.
Propagate from offsets or stem cuttings. Allow cuttings or offsets to callus over for several days to a week before planting in a well-draining cactus mix. Roots typically form within a few weeks to months.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its container. Use a gritty, well-draining cactus potting mix. Repotting is best done in spring. Handle with care to avoid spine injury.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Cochemiea Thornberi (Cochemiea thornberi)
Where Cochemiea Thornberi (Cochemiea thornberi) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Cochemiea |
| Species | Cochemiea thornberi |
Similar in genus Cochemiea
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
