About

A cactus with globose to cylindric, grey-green stems to 30cm tall, with black spines becoming grey; funnel-shaped, purple flowers 2cm across open in summer.

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, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2

Plant details

Plant typeCactus Succulent
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants

Care notes

CultivationUnder glass or indoors, grow in standard cactus compost in full light, with low humidity. From mid-spring to early autumn, water moderately and apply a dilute liquid fertiliser monthly. Keep dry at other times
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed at 19-24°C (66-75°F) in spring or summer
Pest resistanceVulnerable to mealybugs and root mealybugs
Disease resistanceRelatively disease resistant