About
Espostoa mirabilis is a columnar cactus from Peru producing the characteristic tall, woolly-haired, spiny stems of the genus. A distinctive and architectural cactus for a heated greenhouse or frost-free, sunny garden.
About the genus
Espostoa are columnar cacti from Ecuador and Peru with tall, cylindrical stems covered in dense, white, woolly or bristly hairs concealing sharp spines. Bell-shaped white or rarely red flowers bloom at night, followed by edible fruits. Grown mainly as houseplants or in heated glasshouses.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeCactus Succulent
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesHouseplants, Patio and container plants
Native toPeru
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 information
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or removing offsets in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to mealybugs
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to root and stem rots if overwatered