Echinopsis scopulicola

Scientific Name

Echinopsis scopulicola (F.Ritter) Mottram

Synonym(s)

Trichocereus scopulicola

Scientific Classification

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

Etymology

The specific epithet "scopulicola" (pronounced "sko-poo-li-KOH-luh") means "rock-dweller" or "cliff-dweller" and refers to the native habitat of this cactus.

Origin

Echinopsis scopulicola is native to Bolivia. It is not accepted as a separate species and is treated as a synonym of Echinopsis lageniformis.

Description

Echinopsis scopulicola is a columnar cactus that can grow up to 13.1 feet (4 m) tall, branching from the base. It is rare for this cactus to produce many shoots, and it usually has no side shoots. The stems can reach a diameter of 4 inches (10 cm) and have 4 to 6 ribs, though most specimens have 5. The areoles are sunken and have very little white wool on top. This cactus is also noted for its unusually short spines.

The flowers are white, appear at night, and stay open until the late morning. They can measure up to 9 inches (22.5 cm) long. The fruits are green and can grow up to 2.4 inches (6 cm) in diameter.

How to Grow and Care for Echinopsis scopulicola

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

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 of slightly wilting. When you water, however, you should water deeply. The plant will noticeably plump up. The cactus mustn't be exposed to prolonged dampness and standing water. Never let your cactus sit in a dish of water. Lastly, make sure to fertilize 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, then gently remove the pot. Knock away the old soil from the roots, making sure to remove any rotted or dead roots. 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.