Echinopsis ancistrophora
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Echinopsis ancistrophora

Easter lily cactus

Tier 1 Difficulty: easy Water: low Light: full_sun
Temperature
20–41 °C
Soil pH
6–7
Hardiness
Zone 9–13
Click count
20
Observations
7

Description

Source: leafsnap

Echinopsis subdenudata (commonly called domino cactus, night blooming hedgehog, Easter lily cactus) is a species of cactus. It has a globular shape, few spines, with large, white flowers attached to long, green tubes. It occurs in Bolivia, at altitudes of 600–1800 metres. Under its synonym Echinopsis ancistrophora it has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

💡 Echinopsis × wilkensii was initially a frail plant. It was as delicate as water and could be easily harmed by the slightest touch. Observing its vulnerability, God took pity on it and provided a suit of armor to protect its heart. This armor was as hard as iron and adorned with sharp, steel-like thorns. Any creature that ventured too close would inevitably be wounded.

Care Guide

💧 Water

The Easter lily cactus is drought-tolerant and needs to be watered thoroughly only when the soil is dry. In spring, summer, and fall, water the cactus once or twice a week. During winter, reduce the watering to about once a week. It is best to use rainwater or distilled water rather than tap water to prevent soil compaction and rotting.

☀️ Light Full sun

Native to dry areas, the Easter lily cactus does best in full sun, as its native habitat has intense sunlight and very little shade. It can also tolerate partial sun, providing some flexibility in its growth.

Ideal: Full sun
FAQ
What are the sunlight requirements for an Easter lily cactus to thrive?

The Easter lily cactus (Echinopsis ancistrophora) thrives in conditions that meet its specific sunlight requirements. It needs full sun, which is above 6 hours of sunlight daily, to prosper. However, it can also tolerate partial sun, defined as about 3-6 hours of sunlight per day. It's important to observe the sunlight patterns in your garden, aiming to find spots that provide the perfect balance of light and shade. This careful placement ensures the happiness and health of your Easter lily cactus.

🌡️ Temperature 20–41.1°C

Easter lily cactus does best in warm conditions and needs higher temperatures during the growing season to stimulate growth and metabolism. It prefers plenty of sunlight, suitable moisture, and good airflow. It can be harmed by very low temperatures and by excessive watering. Likewise, it’s important to avoid extreme heat and overly dry conditions.

Ideal temperature: 20–41.1°C
FAQ
What is the Easter lily cactus?

The Easter lily cactus, known botanically as Echinopsis ancistrophora, is a type of flowering cactus. Unfortunately, there are no further details provided about its essentials or symptoms.

💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 6-7
Soil pH: 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer

Light applications of fertilizer once or twice a year during the growing season are enough for Easter lily cactus. Do not fertilize in winter or summer when it is dormant. Reduce fertilizer for plants that have been repotted and wait a couple of months after repotting before fertilizing. Fertilizing helps maintain healthy growth and promotes flowering.

🪴 Pot & Repot 2-3 years

Repot the Easter lily cactus in spring or summer, selecting a pot slightly larger than the current one that provides good drainage. Use a sandy or gritty cactus mix that drains well. Handle the plant carefully to avoid its spikes. Let the cactus dry out before repotting to prevent root rot. After repotting, wait one week before watering so the roots can heal.

Suggested frequency: 2-3 years
✂️ Pruning

The Easter lily cactus is known for its stunning flowers and round shape, and it requires very little pruning. To encourage growth and maintain its shape, trim any dead stems in the spring. This also helps to control offsets. Make sure to use sterilized tools to prevent infections. Pruning at the right time improves airflow and overall plant health, ensuring vibrant blooms each season.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Succulent
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Echinopsis
Family
Cactaceae
Hardiness Zone
9-13
Mature Height
20 cm
Mature Spread
20 cm
Leaf Color
Green, Dark Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Color
White, Pink
Flower Size
7.62 cm to 11.43 cm
Bloom Time
Summer
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
Native Area
Bolivia

Tags (6)

Common Names (1)

en Easter lily cactus