Scientific Name
Echinopsis chamaecereus 'Cristata'
Accepted Scientific Name
Echinopsis chamaecereus H. Friedrich & Glaetzle
Synonym(s)
Echinopsis chamaecereus f. cristata, Lobivia silvestrii f. cristata
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Trichocereeae
Genus: Echinopsis
Description
Echinopsis chamaecereus 'Cristata' is a rare, fascinating cactus with pale green fan-shaped stems covered with clusters of white bristle-like spines. It grows up to 6 inches (15 cm) tall and up to 12 inches (30 cm) wide. The stems take on a nice purple tinge during the winter rest period.
The crested growth does not bloom, but the plant sometimes sends up normal stems that produce orange-red flowers from late spring to early summer.
Origin
Echinopsis chamaecereus 'Cristata' is a form of Echinopsis chamaecereus selected for its crested growth.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 10a to 11b: from 30 °F (−1.1 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Peanut Cactus needs a well-draining potting mix. Water the plant thoroughly until water comes through the pot's holes and let the soil dry at least halfway down the pot before watering again. In winter, decrease or withhold water. The plant will look shriveled, and stems can take on a reddish tinge, but the Peanut Cactus will plump up again and return to its normal color in spring.
The plants grow well in hanging baskets or shallower, 4-inch (10 cm) nursery containers because the cactus is shallow-rooted. Hybrids can take deeper pots. It is difficult to transplant older clumps of Peanut Cactus because the stems break apart so easily. Fertilize the cactus once a year during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer at half the recommended strength. In areas with hot, dry summers like the Southwest, grow Peanut Cactus in areas that get partial shade. In areas with cool summers or temperate climates, grow it in full sun.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Echinopsis.
Links
- Back to genus Echinopsis
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
