Scientific Name
Eriosyce napina subsp. glabrescens (F.Ritter) Ferryman
Synonyms
Chileorebutia glabrescens, Eriosyce napina var. glabrescens, Eriosyce odieri subsp. glabrescens, Thelocephala glabrescens
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Notocacteae
Genus: Eriosyce
Description
Eriosyce napina subsp. glabrescens is a small geophytic cactus with a solitary, spherical or flattened stem that slowly grows atop a thick underground taproot. The stem is glaucous blue, glossy green, or dark purple with brown, olive, or grey tones, and up to 2.2 inches (8 cm) tall with an equal diameter. Spines are black, very short, recurved, and strong. Flowers are pale yellowish-red to dull pink, up to 1.4 inches (3.5 cm) long, and up to 2.4 inches (6 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
Eriosyce cacti require strong sun exposure to develop good spinal growth but tolerate light shade. Therefore, 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.
During the summer, regular doses of cactus fertilizer will help it grow its best. However, use diluted fertilizer for best results.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Eriosyce.
Origin
This subspecies is native to Chile.
Links
- Back to genus Eriosyce
- Succulentopedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
