Free Echinopsis Multiplex Plants

The extraordinarily large, fragrant flowers of the Echinopsis are quite outstanding. Although the individual flowers last for only a day, the plant remains in flower for some time. To get the best from the plant, it is important not to expose it to any artificial light at night, as it needs darkness to begin flowering. In Europe the Echinopsis is very popular, especially as it is quite hardy and tolerates relatively low temperatures. It is important to keep the compost on the dry side. One of its common names. Windowsill Cactus, suggests the plant’s favoured position. As with many other cacti the spines can cause quite painful injuries, so always wear protective gloves when tending to the plant.

Plant type : Flowering cactus with low globular habit
Season of interest : Summer
Size : 10-15cm (4—6in)
Flower : 10cm (4in) wide, pink, fragrant, produced in summer
Leaf : Globular, ribbed, green stem with spines radiating from woolly areoles
Temperature : 10-30°C (50-86°F)
Aspect/Light : Full sun
Humidity : Low
Watering : Evenly moisten compost in spring and summer, allowing to get quite dry before re-watering; keep almost dry in autumn and winter, watering only enough to prevent dehydration
Feeding : Once every two to three weeks with half strength flowering plant fertilizer in spring and summer
Propagation : Remove and plant offsets in spring or summer, sow seeds in cactus and succulent compost at 24-28°C (75 — 82°F) in spring; wear gloves when handling the plant.
Potting : Cactus and succulent compost
Problems : Mealy bug
Availability : Occasionally available in the spring
Uses indoors : Good windowsill plant
Other varieties : E. eyriesii- white flowers