Echinopsis care requirements
Quick answer
For Echinopsis, care requirements come down to this: Echinopsis (Summer type) is a large genus of globular to cylindrical cacti native to South America, containing species ranging from tiny 1-inch mammillaria-like plants to columnar specimens 6 feet tall. Echinopsis are prized for their spectacular flowers that bloom at night and can last for 1-2 days, with some producing fragrant blooms up to 10 inches in diameter. Many popular 'LOBivia' and 'Trichocereus' cacti have been reclassified into Echinopsis. They are among the easiest cacti to grow and flower.
Start here:
- 1. Water thoroughly once a month during growing season — more frequent watering causes rot
- 2. Provide 6+ hours of direct sun for best flowering
What care requirements mean for Echinopsis
Echinopsis (Summer type) is a large genus of globular to cylindrical cacti native to South America, containing species ranging from tiny 1-inch mammillaria-like plants to columnar specimens 6 feet tall. Echinopsis are prized for their spectacular flowers that bloom at night and can last for 1-2 days, with some producing fragrant blooms up to 10 inches in diameter. Many popular 'LOBivia' and 'Trichocereus' cacti have been reclassified into Echinopsis. They are among the easiest cacti to grow and flower.
How to meet Echinopsis care requirements
- 1
Water thoroughly once a month during growing season — more frequent watering causes rot
- 2
Provide 6+ hours of direct sun for best flowering
- 3
Use 70%+ inorganic gritty mix for excellent drainage
- 4
Echinopsis can tolerate temperatures down to 40°F but should be protected from frost
- 5
Flower buds emerge from sides of stem and grow rapidly — do not disturb during this time
Keeping Echinopsis in range
Water monthly during growing season; provide full sun; use gritty soil; protect from frost below 40°F.