Scientific Name
Eulychnia castanea 'Varispiralis' (informal name)
Accepted Scientific Name
Eulychnia castanea Phil.
Synonym(s)
Eulychnia castanea 'Spiralis' (informal name), Eulychnia castanea 'Spiraliforme' (informal name)
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Notocacteae
Genus: Eulychnia
Etymology
The specific epithet "castanea" (pronounced "kas-TAN-nee-uh") means "chestnut-colored" or "resembling a chestnut" and most likely refers to the resemblance of the fruits of the species to chestnuts.
The cultivar epithet 'Varispiralis' (pronounced "var-ee-spir-AL-iss") means "variably spiraled" or "irregularly spiraled" and refers to the spiral growth of the stems of this form.
Origin of Eulychnia castanea 'Varispiralis'
Eulychnia castanea 'Varispiralis' is a mutated form of Eulychnia castanea selected in cultivation. The origin is unknown.
Description of Eulychnia castanea 'Varispiralis'
Eulychnia castanea 'Varispiralis' is a rare, slow-growing cactus with erect stems that have impressive spiral growth patterns, which can grow either clockwise or counterclockwise. This unique feature makes it highly sought after by cactus collectors. The stems can reach heights of up to 6.5 feet (2 m) and a diameter of 4 inches (10 cm), with branching occurring at the base. The spines are yellow with dark brown tips.
How to Grow and Care for Eulychnia castanea 'Varispiralis'
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30°F (-1.1°C) to 50°F (10°C).
Eulychnia is uncommon in cultivation, and it appears that only collectors with a specific interest in the genus grow them. It requires full sun or light shade to maintain a compact growth habit with strong, colored spines. It tends to bronze in intense light, encouraging flowering and heavy spine production. A light shadow may be helpful on the hottest summer days.
These cacti require light but regular watering in summer. Let the soil dry between waterings, and keep it dry in winter.
Eulychnias need to be kept in a cool place during winter rest. If kept on the dry side before and during cold weather, they resist light frost. In short periods, they are hardy to 28°F (-2°C).
Eulychnia likes a coarse mineral cactus soil mix, but can become too elongated if the soil is too rich. In summer, feed with a high-potassium fertilizer.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Eulychnia.
Links
- Back to genus Eulychnia
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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