Scientific Name
Echinopsis candicans (Gillies ex Salm-Dyck) D.R.Hunt
Common Name(s)
Argentine Giant
Synonym(s)
Cereus gladiatus, Helianthocereus pseudocandicans, Echinopsis pseudocandicans, Trichocereus pseudocandicans, Trichocereus neolamprochlorus, Echinopsis courantii, Trichocereus candicans, Cereus candicans, Trichocereus courantii
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Trichocereeae
Genus: Echinopsis
Flower
Color: White
Bloom Time: Late spring
Origin
This species is native to northern and western Argentina (Monte Desert).
Description
Echinopsis candicans is a cactus with a shrubby growth habit. Individual stems are light green with 9 to 11 low ribs, up to 24 inches (60 cm) tall and 6 inches (15 cm) in diameter. The large white areoles are spaced at 1.2 inches (3 cm) and produce brownish-yellow spines. The central spines are up to 4 inches (10 cm) long, while the radial spines are 1.6 inches (4 cm) long.
The flowers are fragrant, white, up to 10 inches (25 cm) long, 8 inches (20 cm) in diameter, and open at night.
How to Grow and Care for Echinopsis candicans
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b: from 20°F (-6.7°C) to 50°F (10°C).
If you can grow cacti and succulents successfully, you can likely grow the Echinopsis species without too much trouble. Like many cacti, they prefer a drying period between waterings, even when slightly wilted. When you do water, water deeply; the plant will plump up noticeably. The cactus mustn't be exposed to prolonged dampness or sitting in moisture. Never let your cactus sit in a dish of water. Lastly, ensure you fertilize during the growing season for the best results.
Repot as needed, preferably during the warm season. To repot a cactus, ensure the soil is dry before repotting, then gently remove the pot.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Echinopsis.
Links
- Back to genus Echinopsis
- Plantpedia: Browse flowering plants by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, or Origin
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