Copiapoa tenuissima f. monstruosa is an unusual form of the Chilean species, known for its irregular, sculptural growth. The stems often grow in a spiralling pattern with distorted ribs, topped with clusters of pale wool at the crown. The plant’s surface is dark green to grey-green, with short, white areoles that contrast against the body, giving it a textured appearance. Like the typical form, it is adapted to the hyper-arid coastal deserts of northern Chile, where fog provides much of its moisture. In cultivation, it occasionally produces small yellow flowers during the warmer months.
Care Tips:
Light – Provide bright light to full sun to maintain compact growth and natural colouring.
Water – Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between watering; reduce watering further in winter.
Humidity – Prefers low humidity and good airflow, mimicking its desert habitat.
Media – Use a coarse, mineral-rich, free-draining cactus mix.
Temperature – Ideal temperature range is 10–30 °C; protect from frost.
Fertiliser – Apply a low-nitrogen cactus fertiliser during active growth in spring and summer.
Repotting – Repot every 3–4 years, as this species grows slowly and prefers to remain undisturbed.
Shipping Schedule and Biosecurity Information
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Dispatch & Shipping Information
Non-Biosecurity States (QLD, NSW, ACT, VIC, SA): We now offer two dispatches per week for these regions:
Tuesday Dispatch: Orders placed by Sunday 11:59 PM AEST.
Friday Dispatch: Orders placed by Wednesday 11:59 PM AEST. Orders placed after these cut-offs will be dispatched on the next available day.
Biosecurity States (WA, NT, TAS): These orders require mandatory biosecurity treatment (PHC) and follow a specific weekly schedule:
Cut-off: Orders must be placed by Thursday 11:59 PM AEST.
Dispatch Day: Orders are processed over the weekend and dispatched on Tuesday.
Plant Health Certification (PHC) Fees:
$20 fee applies to WA orders.
$10 fee applies to NT and TAS orders. This fee is per order (not per plant) and is included in your shipping costat checkout.
Important Note: We operate independently from Collectors Corner. For any enquiries, please refer to our contact page
