Overview

Echinopsis huascha var. grandiflora is a bushy cactus succulent in the genus Echinopsis, part of the Cactaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Echinopsis huascha var. grandiflora grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam and sand soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H2. Suggested uses include patio and container plants.

About

Echinopsis huascha var. grandiflora is a bushy 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, adding seasonal interest. It thrives in full sun on south- or west-facing, sheltered aspects, preferring fertile, well-drained loam or sandy soils with a range of pH levels. Suitable for patio and container planting, it is hardy to UK zone H2 and can be propagated by seed or offsets.

About the genus

Echinopsis is a genus of cacti native to South America, sometimes known as hedgehog cactus, sea-urchin cactus or Easter lily cactus. As of November 2025, Plants of the World Online used a broad circumscription of the genus, resulting in about 80 accepted species, ranging from large and treelike types to small globose cacti. The name derives from echinos hedgehog or sea urchin, and opsis appearance, a reference to these plants' dense coverings of spines.

Wikipedia contributors, "Echinopsis", CC BY-SA 4.0Echinopsis

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 huascha var. grandiflora size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Cactus Succulent
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Evergreen
Suggested uses
Patio and container plants

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Echinopsis huascha var. grandiflora

Propagation
Seed, Offsets
Pest resistance
Mealybugs
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Echinopsis huascha var. grandiflora?

Echinopsis huascha var. grandiflora prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Echinopsis huascha var. grandiflora need?

Echinopsis huascha var. grandiflora grows best in loam and sand soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.

Is Echinopsis huascha var. grandiflora hardy in the UK?

Echinopsis huascha var. grandiflora 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 huascha var. grandiflora?

Seed, Offsets.