Scientific Name
Eulychnia castanea 'Varispiralis'
Synonym(s)
Eulychnia castanea f. varispiralis
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Notocacteae
Genus: Eulychnia
Origin
This cactus is a form of Eulychnia castanea selected for the spiral growth of the stems.
Description
Eulychnia castanea 'Varispiralis' is a rare, slow-growing cactus with erect stems with an impressive spiral growth that can be clockwise or counterclockwise. The stems grow to 6.5 feet (2 m) tall and 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter, branching at the base. Spines are yellow with dark brown tips.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30 °F (−1.1 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Eulychnia is not common in cultivation, and only collectors with a specific interest in the genus seem to grow them. It requires full sun or light shade to keep the plant compact with strong, colored spines. It tends to bronze in intense light, encouraging flowering and heavy spine production. A light shadow may be useful on the hottest summer days.
These cacti require light but regular watering in summer. Let the soil dry between waterings. Keep the soil dry in winter.
Eulychnias need to be kept in a cool place during winter rest. They are resistant to light frost if kept on the dry side before and during cold weather. Eulychnias are hardy to 28 °F (-2 °C) in short periods.
Eulychnia likes a coarse mineral cactus soil mix but can become too elongated if the soil is too rich. Feed with a high potassium fertilizer in summer.
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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