The Triple Pinecone Cactus is a unique, multi-headed cactus that resembles a cluster of three compact pinecones, making it a rare and eye-catching addition to any cactus collection. Its dense, geometric tubercles and pinecone-like texture give it an almost sculptural quality that captivates both collectors and casual admirers.
Each "pinecone" segment features thick, triangular tubercles arranged in a tight spiral pattern, often with a rough, stone-like texture that blends perfectly into their native limestone or gypsum environments.
This cactus typically remains small, with a mature clump measuring 12 inches tall and 5 inches wide, making it ideal for collectors with limited space or those who enjoy growing in shallow display pots.
In late summer or fall, delicate pink, lavender, or magenta flowers may bloom from the center of each head.
These blooms can last several days and are surprisingly large compared to the plant’s small body, adding a burst of color to its otherwise muted tones.
While it may take several years for the plant to flower, its triple crown makes even a non-blooming specimen a stunning display piece.
For more info and care see our main Pine Cone Cactus Page.
Overall, the Triple Pinecone Cactus is a remarkable living sculpture that thrives with minimal care. Its pinecone-like texture, compact size, and triple-headed structure make it a botanical curiosity and a must-have for serious collectors. With the right environment and patience, this cactus rewards its grower with rare blooms and an enduring, rock-like presence that commands attention on any windowsill or display shelf.
Bloom Season
Flower Color
Growth Rate
Hardiness Zone
Mature Size
Plant Type
Resistance
Sun Exposure
Watering Needs
| Bloom Season | Late spring, mid summer |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Tephrocactus articulatus 'trplets' |
| Common Name | Triple Pine cone cactus |
| Dormancy | Winter |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Flower Color | White (With yellow center) |
| Genus | Tephrocactus |
| Growth Habit | Clump-forming |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 8, 9, 10 |
| Mature Size | 12 in. tall |
| Native Area | Argentina |
| Plant Type | Cactus |
| Propagation | By stem cuttings |
| Resistance | Extremely drought-tolerant, mildfrost resistant, pest resistant, deer resistant |
| Soil PH | 6.5, Acidic, Neutral |
| Soil Type | specialized cactus potting mix |
| Special Features | Easy to maintain |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun (6+ hrs.), Partial shade (3–6 hrs. sun) |
| Toxicity | Safe for humans, friendly to dogs, friendly to cats |
| Watering Needs | Low |
Growers Quick Reference Guide - Key Features
| Bloom Season | Late spring, mid summer |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Tephrocactus articulatus 'trplets' |
| Common Name | Triple Pine cone cactus |
| Dormancy | Winter |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Flower Color | White (With yellow center) |
| Genus | Tephrocactus |
| Growth Habit | Clump-forming |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 8, 9, 10 |
| Mature Size | 12 in. tall |
| Native Area | Argentina |
| Plant Type | Cactus |
| Propagation | By stem cuttings |
| Resistance | Extremely drought-tolerant, mildfrost resistant, pest resistant, deer resistant |
| Soil PH | 6.5, Acidic, Neutral |
| Soil Type | specialized cactus potting mix |
| Special Features | Easy to maintain |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun (6+ hrs.), Partial shade (3–6 hrs. sun) |
| Toxicity | Safe for humans, friendly to dogs, friendly to cats |
| Watering Needs | Low |
- Description
- Key Plant Features
The Triple Pinecone Cactus is a unique, multi-headed cactus that resembles a cluster of three compact pinecones, making it a rare and eye-catching addition to any cactus collection. Its dense, geometric tubercles and pinecone-like texture give it an almost sculptural quality that captivates both collectors and casual admirers.
Each "pinecone" segment features thick, triangular tubercles arranged in a tight spiral pattern, often with a rough, stone-like texture that blends perfectly into their native limestone or gypsum environments.
This cactus typically remains small, with a mature clump measuring 12 inches tall and 5 inches wide, making it ideal for collectors with limited space or those who enjoy growing in shallow display pots.
In late summer or fall, delicate pink, lavender, or magenta flowers may bloom from the center of each head.
These blooms can last several days and are surprisingly large compared to the plant’s small body, adding a burst of color to its otherwise muted tones.
While it may take several years for the plant to flower, its triple crown makes even a non-blooming specimen a stunning display piece.
For more info and care see our main Pine Cone Cactus Page.
Overall, the Triple Pinecone Cactus is a remarkable living sculpture that thrives with minimal care. Its pinecone-like texture, compact size, and triple-headed structure make it a botanical curiosity and a must-have for serious collectors. With the right environment and patience, this cactus rewards its grower with rare blooms and an enduring, rock-like presence that commands attention on any windowsill or display shelf.
Bloom Season
Flower Color
Growth Rate
Hardiness Zone
Mature Size
Plant Type
Resistance
Sun Exposure
Watering Needs
| Bloom Season | Late spring, mid summer |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Tephrocactus articulatus 'trplets' |
| Common Name | Triple Pine cone cactus |
| Dormancy | Winter |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Flower Color | White (With yellow center) |
| Genus | Tephrocactus |
| Growth Habit | Clump-forming |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 8, 9, 10 |
| Mature Size | 12 in. tall |
| Native Area | Argentina |
| Plant Type | Cactus |
| Propagation | By stem cuttings |
| Resistance | Extremely drought-tolerant, mildfrost resistant, pest resistant, deer resistant |
| Soil PH | 6.5, Acidic, Neutral |
| Soil Type | specialized cactus potting mix |
| Special Features | Easy to maintain |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun (6+ hrs.), Partial shade (3–6 hrs. sun) |
| Toxicity | Safe for humans, friendly to dogs, friendly to cats |
| Watering Needs | Low |
Growers Quick Reference Guide - Key Features
| Bloom Season | Late spring, mid summer |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Tephrocactus articulatus 'trplets' |
| Common Name | Triple Pine cone cactus |
| Dormancy | Winter |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Flower Color | White (With yellow center) |
| Genus | Tephrocactus |
| Growth Habit | Clump-forming |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 8, 9, 10 |
| Mature Size | 12 in. tall |
| Native Area | Argentina |
| Plant Type | Cactus |
| Propagation | By stem cuttings |
| Resistance | Extremely drought-tolerant, mildfrost resistant, pest resistant, deer resistant |
| Soil PH | 6.5, Acidic, Neutral |
| Soil Type | specialized cactus potting mix |
| Special Features | Easy to maintain |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun (6+ hrs.), Partial shade (3–6 hrs. sun) |
| Toxicity | Safe for humans, friendly to dogs, friendly to cats |
| Watering Needs | Low |
