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Cactus Succulent

Echinocereus pentalophus

ladyfinger cactus

A prostrate or erect, clump-forming cactus to 20cm with cylindrical 4- to 8-ribbed stems and radial spines. In early summer it bears many bight pink flowers to 10cm across

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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green Pink
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H2
Botanical details
Family
Cactaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Clump forming
Genus

Echinocereus can have deeply ribbed cylindrical or globose stems, sometimes forming clumps, and large funnel-shaped flowers

Name status

Unresolved

Plant range
SW USA

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in cactus compost in full light. From midspring to early autum water moderately and apply a half-strength balanced liquid fertiliser monthly; keep completely dry at other times. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for further information

Propagation

Propagate by sowing seed at 21°C in spring; separate offsets or take stem cuttings in spring or summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Houseplants
  • Patio and container plants
  • Sub-tropical
  • Low Maintenance
  • Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to mealybugs and scale insects

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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