Synonyms:

Echinocereus engelmannii subsp. xiphizon

Habitat:

Echinocereus engelmannii var. armatus is native to the desert regions of the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. It thrives in arid environments, often found on rocky slopes, desert plains, and mesas, where it is adapted to survive in the challenging conditions of high temperatures, intense sunlight, and limited water availability. The plant’s natural habitat is characterized by well-draining soils and minimal vegetation, conditions that support its growth and survival in ecosystems where water conservation is critical.

Description:

Echinocereus engelmannii var. armatus is a cylindrical, clumping cactus that can grow up to 60 cm tall and 2-5 cm in diameter. Its most distinctive feature is its dense covering of spines, which can vary in color from yellow to reddish-brown. These spines not only protect the cactus from herbivores but also provide some shade from the harsh desert sun. The cactus typically has 11 to 15 ribs, with areoles producing clusters of spines. During the spring, it blooms with large, magenta or pink flowers that are remarkably vibrant against the desert landscape. The flowers are followed by green to red fruits, which are edible and attract various wildlife. The flowers of Echinocereus engelmannii var. armatus are known to open late in the afternoon and remain open at night. This timing suggests an adaptation to attract specific nocturnal pollinators, such as moths or possibly even bats, highlighting a fascinating aspect of its ecological niche.

Cultivation:

This is a slow growing plant, easy to cultivate. The plant needs a full sunlight exposure but is recommended to avoid direct sun-light during the hottest periods. The plant does not like temperatures below 10°C so it needs to be placed indoors in the coldest periods. The soil should be mixed with pumice, clay and loam to allow for drainage and prevent root rot, as the plant is prone to it. Remember to use a perforated pot to drain excess water. Watering can be done regularly in spring and summer: during the vegetative period you can water the plant every 7 days, checking that the soil is completely dry before watering again. In winter you should stop the watering to allow the plant to enter dormancy. If you want a faster and lusher growth, you can fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with specific fertilizers for succulents; stop fertilizing throughout the winter. If the pot becomes too small for the plant, you can repot it in a pot that is 2 cm wider. Repotting should be done early in the growing season with fresh new potting soil. Be careful to red spiders and mealybugs.

Propagation:

Propagation can be done by cutting or by seed. When propagating through cuttings, make the cut during the spring and then let the cutting dry. After a few days, the cut surface will dry, and a callus will form. Place the cutting in a mixture of sand, soil, and pumice. To increase the success of propagation, you can make two or more cuttings at the same time. For cuttings, it is recommended to maintain temperatures around 20°C. Propagation by seed is a simple method to propagate the plant. Simply sow the seeds in sandy loam soil and keep them in an environment with a high level of humidity and at a temperature of 14°C.

Curiosity:

Echinocereus engelmannii var. armatus is known for its longevity, with individuals capable of living for several decades. This longevity is accompanied by a slow growth rate, a common trait among many cacti, which helps them conserve resources in their challenging habitats. Due to its specific growing conditions and slow growth rate, Echinocereus engelmannii var. armatus presents a rewarding challenge for cactus collectors and enthusiasts. Successfully cultivating this cactus requires patience and an understanding of its natural habitat, making it a prized specimen in any collection.

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