Eriosyce napina | World of Succulents

Scientific Name

Eriosyce napina (Phil.) Katt.

Synonyms

Echinocactus napinus (basionym), Chilenia napina, Chileorebutia napina, Echinocactus mitis, Hildmannia mitis, Malacocarpus napinus, Neochilenia mitis, Thelocephala napina

Scientific Classification

Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Notocacteae
Genus: Eriosyce

Description

Eriosyce napina is a slow-growing, geophytic cactus with a solitary, spherical or flattened stem up to 2.4 inches (6 cm) tall, up to 2 inches (5 cm) across, ranging from green to brown, but more commonly with brown-olive-grey tones. The spines are very short and black in color. The flowers are up to 1.4 inches (3.5 cm) long, up to 2.4 inches (6 cm) in diameter, whitish, yellowish, pinkish to pale red with a silky shine. Blooms in late spring. The fruits are large, red and wrapped in white wool.

Photo via llifle.com

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zone 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).

How to Grow and Care

Eriosyce requires strong sun exposure to develop good spinal growth, but tolerate light shade. Some light shadow my be useful in the hottest summer days.

A rich, fast-draining cactus mix is ideal. Good drainage is essential for health.

During the summer, water the cactus every two weeks or slightly less often, 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, which will eventually kill your plant.

During the summer, regular doses of a cactus fertilizer will help it grow its best. Use diluted fertilizer for best results. – See more at: How to Grow and Care for Eriosyce