Synonyms:

Echinocereus fobeanus subsp. metornii

Habitat:

Echinocereus metornii is exclusively found in the Coahuila region of Mexico. Its natural habitat consists of desert scrub environments. In these arid landscapes, Echinocereus metornii thrives, demonstrating its adaptability to harsh conditions.

Description:

Echinocereus metornii is a rare cactus species celebrated for its stunning flowers. These blossoms exhibit a striking color pattern, featuring deep crimson bases on the petals, followed by a pinkish-white band and culminating in pink-purple or rose-colored tips. Notably, the bright green stigma lobes stand out against a backdrop of creamy anthers. Distinguishing features of Echinocereus metornii include its typically solitary, large, ribbed stems adorned with tubercles, and spines that do not obscure the stem surface. Moreover, the floral tube, covered in wool and bristly, hair-like spines, sets it apart from other Texan Echinocereus. When not in bloom, confusion may arise with species such as Echinocereus viridiflorus var. russanthus and possibly Echinocereus dasyacanthus.
This perennial stem succulent typically grows either solitary or with a few branches. Its cylindrical stems, ranging from 5 to 25 centimeters in height and 3 to 5 centimeters in diameter, taper towards the tips without annual constrictions. Under optimal conditions, the stems exhibit hues of light green, grey-green, or blue-green, although they may take on a reddish-maroon tint when subjected to stress. Occasionally, the roots of Echinocereus metornii may become thickened. The plant’s ribs, numbering between 10 and 16, are either vertical or spiraled, and prominently tuberculate. Tubercles are spaced approximately 6 to 8 millimeters apart, while areoles, initially woolly and circular in youth, elongate into elliptical shapes as they age, becoming bare over time. Echinocereus metornii bears between one to six slender, straight central spines, typically brownish to dark brown with whitish bases, and ranging from 3 to 25 millimeters in length. Radial spines, numbering between 11 and 17, are slender and vary in color from whitish or ashy to pinkish-gray, often with brown to maroon tips. Flowering occurs in funnel-shaped blooms, primarily from near the top of the plant downwards, with colors ranging from light pinkish to magenta, featuring white throats and dark crimson centers. Phenologically, Echinocereus metornii blooms in spring, typically from March to April, with the possibility of extending into July. Fruits mature within about one month, typically from May to June, though possibly as late as August. Flowers open mid-morning, close at night, and may persist for one to three days. Fruits of Echinocereus metornii are oblong or narrowly obovoid, ranging from 18 to 37 millimeters in length and 10 to 15 millimeters in diameter. Initially green, they may turn reddish and are often covered in woolly areoles bearing bristly or hair-like spines. Ultimately, these areoles become deciduous as the fruit ripens, which splits open on one side, revealing a whitish, mucilaginous, or nearly dry pulp containing oval seeds measuring 1 to 1.2 millimeters in diameter and exhibiting a dark brown to black, warty appearance.

Cultivation:

Cultivating Echinocereus metornii presents few challenges, making it an appealing choice for potted cultivation. When tending to this species, it’s crucial to employ a mineral-rich, well-draining soil with minimal organic content, mirroring the limestone-enriched conditions of its native habitats in Texas (particularly the Big Bend area) and nearby regions of Mexico. Additionally, incorporating extra calcium into the soil may prove advantageous. Despite its slow growth rate, encouraging slightly faster growth can be achieved by providing adequate water, warmth, and diluted liquid fertilizer during the active growing season. However, vigilance is essential to avoid overwatering, as Echinocereus metornii is susceptible to rot. The plant readily produces offsets, enabling clumps to develop within a few years. For optimal growth, Echinocereus metornii thrives in a porous, slightly acidic potting medium, preferably enriched with materials like pumice, vulcanite, and perlite. When cultivated outdoors, it flourishes in poor, rocky soils. Exposure to abundant sunlight, including direct morning or afternoon sun, is vital for vigorous growth and blooming. Indoors, ensure at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Though more tolerant of moisture than typical desert cacti, Echinocereus metornii still demands excellent drainage to prevent rot. Its natural habitat showcases remarkable cold resistance, enduring temperatures as low as -10°C to -25°C for brief periods. However, for safe cultivation, maintain temperatures above 5°C and keep the plant dry during winter dormancy to prevent elongation. Routine maintenance involves repotting every two years, offering ample space for growth in large, shallow containers with adequate drainage. While susceptible to fungal diseases if overwatered, Echinocereus metornii generally exhibits greater resilience than many other cacti, particularly in warmer climates. Avoid damp conditions during cold spells to mitigate potential damage. This species lends itself well to rock gardens or container cultivation, where it provides striking contrast alongside agaves, yuccas, and low-growing flowering plants.

Propagation:

Echinocereus metornii can be propagated through cuttings, by simply taking off one of the branches from the base. Also seeds can be used as a method of propagation.

Curiosity:

The classification and interrelationships within the Echinocereus chisoensis group, including Echinocereus fobeanus, Echinocereus metornii, and Echinocereus chisoensis, remain a subject of contention. While these species are often considered synonyms of Echinocereus chisoensis, discrepancies arise due to significant variations in morphology. These differences encompass spination, plant shape, flower bud and receptacle tube morphology, color zonation in flowers, size of nectar chamber, fruit chamber form, as well as seed size, shape, and surface structure. Moreover, both chemical and genetic analyses support the observed morphological diversity. Consequently, the synonymization of these species appears to stem from flawed interpretations of their relationships.

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