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Cactus/cactus or what

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Question

cactus 2
I bought this cactus at a flea mkt. and it has grown quite a bit this year. It is now about a foot tall and has about a 2 inch hole in the center. What is it, I cannot find it in a pic. anywhere. I live in Ky.

Answer
Dear Terry,

It is a bromeliad, not a cactus. It is a tropical plant.  The little plant is an agave, a succulent. That little guy needs to be in a smaller pot with well draining soil.  It is winter dormant so I'd just leave it in a cool room, water only when dry and fix it up in the spring.  

As for your tropical, I am not an expert but it needs rich well draining soil, likes warmth and moist conditions.  I don't understand about the two inch hole.  Your guy is a tad raggedy, looks like it's been sunburned, and have you cut it back?

So even tho you have the two side by side their care is quite different.

If I can help any further please let me know.

maureen
    Questioner's Rating
    Rating(1-10)Knowledgeability = 10Clarity of Response = 10Politeness = 10
    CommentThank You very much. I let it get sunburned a couple of weeks ago when we had unusually high temps for KY.


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Maureen

Expertise

I can answer questions regarding the care and propagation of cactus and succulents and would actually group these together as folks often mistake one for the other and often their care is quite different. I also have a cold hardy cactus and succulent garden that has been quite successful. The subject in regard to classification of type is enormous and I wouldn't be able to answer all questions by any means. It is really IMPORTANT TO INCLUDE A PHOTO if at all possible and LET ME KNOW WHERE YOU ARE FROM, especially in terms of climate.

Experience

I have learned by reading books, by trial and error and by consulting with folks with much more knowledge. I have primarily grown C&S for the last 20 years.

Organizations
Cactus and Succulent Society of Massachusetts.

Education/Credentials
No formal training. See experience.

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