Echinopsis scopulicola

Scientific Name

Echinopsis scopulicola (F.Ritter) Mottram

Synonyms

Trichocereus scopulicola

Scientific Classification

Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Trichocereeae
Genus: Echinopsis

Description

Echinopsis scopulicola is a columnar cactus that grows up to 13.1 feet (4 m) tall, branching from the base. It is rare for this cactus to produce many shoots and usually does not have any side shoots. The stems grow up to 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter and have 4 to 6 ribs though most specimens have 5. The areoles are sunk in and have very little white wool on top of them. This cactus is also noted for its unusually short spines. Flowers are white, up to 9 inches (22.5 cm) long, appear at night, and stay open until the late morning. Fruits are green and up to 2.4 inches (6 cm) thick.

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zone 10a to 11b: from 30 °F (−1.1 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).

How to Grow and Care

If you can grow cacti and succulents successfully, you can likely grow the Echinopsis species without too much trouble. Like many cacti, they prefer a drying period between waterings, even to the point where they slightly wilt. When you water, however, you should water deeply. The plant will noticeably plump up. The cactus mustn't be exposed to prolonged dampness and sitting water. Never let your cactus sit in a dish of water. Lastly, make sure to fertilizer during the growing season for the best results.

Repot as needed, preferably during the warm season. To repot a cactus, make sure the soil is dry before repotting, then gently remove the pot. Knock away the old soil from the roots, making sure to remove any rotted or dead roots in the process. Treat any cuts with a fungicide. Place the plant in its new pot and backfill with potting soil, spreading the roots out as you repot. Leave the plant dry for a week or so, then begin to water lightly to reduce the risk of root rot.

See more at How to Grow and Care for Echinopsis.

Origin

This species is native to Bolivia.