About

This cactus to 15cm tall, with a dense covering of bristly, light brown to white spines. In spring it produces brilliant pink, funnel-shaped flowers to 3cm across.

About the genus

Eriosyce are a genus of globose or cylindrical cacti that are native to Chile. They have dense spines and pink or yellow funnel-shaped flowers

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2

Plant details

Plant typeCactus Succulent
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesHouseplants, Patio and container plants
Native toC Chile

Care notes

CultivationGrow in cactus compost in a sunny position. Water moderately during the growing season and keep almost dry in winter. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for further advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to mealybugs
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to stem and root rots if overwatered