Scientific Name
Acanthocalycium spiniflorum (K.Schum.) Backeb.
Synonym(s)
Echinocactus spiniflorus, Acanthocalycium violaceum, Echinopsis spiniflora, Echinopsis violacea, Lobivia spiniflora
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Trichocereeae
Genus: Acanthocalycium
Origin
Acanthocalycium spiniflorum is native to Argentina (Cordoba).
Description
Acanthocalycium spiniflorum is a small cactus with globular stems that become cylindrical with age. It usually grows solitary but may offset at the base with age. The stems can reach up to 6 inches (15 cm) in height and 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter. The spines are yellowish to brown with dark tips, becoming grey with age, and can grow up to 1.6 inches (4 cm) long. Each areole bears 10 to 20 spines.
The showy flowers are white to pinkish-lilac, erect, funnel-shaped, and can reach up to 2 inches (5 cm) in length and 1.6 inches (4 cm) in diameter.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Overall, these are very attractive cacti for dish gardens or indoor displays. A collection of them is especially attractive, as they look like a collection of balls tossed upon the ground. However, it is critical never to let these cacti be exposed to prolonged periods in water or even very high humidity. They will suffer from rot in the presence of humidity. In addition, Echinocactus are vulnerable to pests, including aphids, mealybugs, scale, and whitefly. Identify the infestation as early as possible and treat it with the leave toxic option.
It is best to repot at the beginning of the growing season or summer. To repot a cactus, ensure the soil is dry before repotting, then gently remove the pot. Knock away the old soil from the roots, removing any rotted or dead roots. Treat any cuts with a fungicide. Place the plant in its new pot and backfill it with potting soil, spreading the roots as you repot. Leave the plant dry for a week or so, then begin to water lightly to reduce the risk of root rot.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Echinocactus.
Links
- Back to genus Acanthocalycium
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.
