Scientific Name
Eriosyce chilensis (Hildm. ex K.Schum.) Katt.
Synonym(s)
Echinocactus chilensis, Chilenia chilensis, Chilenia pseudochilensis, Euporteria chilensis, Neochilenia chilensis, Neoporteria pseudochilensis, Pyrrhocactus chilensis
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Notocacteae
Genus: Eriosyce
Description
Eriosyce chilensis is a beautiful cactus with pale green stems with 16 to 24 ribs lined with dense clusters of stiff spines. The spherical stems become columnar as they age and can grow up to 3 feet (90 cm) in height and 5 inches (12.5 cm) in diameter. The spines are needle-like and can range in color from whitish-yellow to brownish. Each areole bears 16 to 24 radial measuring up to 0.6 inches (1.5 cm) long and 6 to 8 central spines measuring up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) long.
In the summer, Eriosyce chilensis produces fuchsia flowers, often with a white center. The flowers measure up to 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter. The fruits are bright red and club-shaped, measuring up to 1.2 inches (3 cm) long. They split open by basal pores.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Eriosyce cacti require intense sun exposure to develop good spinal growth but tolerate light shade. Some light shade may be useful on the hottest summer days.
A rich, fast-draining cactus mix is ideal. Good drainage is essential for health.
Water your Eriosyce every two weeks or slightly less often during the summer, depending on how moist the soil remains. In the winter rest period, cut watering back to once a month, or in humid areas, not at all. One of the key factors in success with these cacti is avoiding any hint of wet soil. Because their root systems are weak, they are especially prone to root rot, eventually killing your plant.
Regular doses of cactus fertilizer will help it grow its best during the summer. However, use diluted fertilizer for best results.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Eriosyce.
Origin
Eriosyce chilensis is native to Chile.
Links
- Back to genus Eriosyce
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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