Overview
Echinopsis chiloensis var. borealis is a clump forming cactus succulent in the genus Echinopsis, part of the Cactaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Echinopsis chiloensis var. borealis grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam and sand soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H2. Suggested uses include houseplants and conservatory and greenhouse.
About
Echinopsis chiloensis var. borealis is a clump-forming cactus succulent belonging to the genus Echinopsis, known for its spherical or cylindrical stems with prominent ribs and spines. This evergreen plant produces funnel-shaped blossoms in spring and summer, thriving best in full sun with a south- or west-facing aspect in sheltered locations. It prefers fertile, well-drained loam or sandy soils across a range of pH levels. Suitable for cultivation as a houseplant or in conservatories and greenhouses, it is hardy to UK zone H2 and can be propagated by seed or offsets.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Echinopsis
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H2
Plant details
Echinopsis chiloensis var. borealis size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Cactus Succulent
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Houseplants, Conservatory and greenhouse
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Echinopsis chiloensis var. borealis
- Propagation
- Seed, Offsets
- Pest resistance
- Mealybugs
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Echinopsis chiloensis var. borealis?
Echinopsis chiloensis var. borealis prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Echinopsis chiloensis var. borealis need?
Echinopsis chiloensis var. borealis grows best in loam and sand soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Echinopsis chiloensis var. borealis hardy in the UK?
Echinopsis chiloensis var. borealis has an RHS hardiness rating of H2, meaning it is tender, tolerating 1–5°C, and needs frost-free protection over winter.
How do I propagate Echinopsis chiloensis var. borealis?
Seed, Offsets.