Picture by Valentino Vallicelli via Llifle
Basic Info
Echinocereus Pentalophus is also commonly known as Lady Finger Cactus. As the plant matures you can expect it to reach up to around 1 m (3.3 ft) long and about 2.5 cm (1″) in diameter. When looking at the plant you will notice that it is pale green and has 4 ribs that are covered by medium long white spines. During late spring the plant will produce flowers that are pink to magenta.
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Pachycereeae
Genus: Echionocereus
Care and Propagation Information
Watering
Echinocereus Pentalophus can be quite beautiful when it is well-taken care of. This succulent type needs typical watering as the other succulents. The watering method is very important to keep your Lady Finger Cactus healthy. It should not sit on the water, and an excess amount of water should be avoided. The best way of watering is soak and dry method this succulent. Yet, the succulent should be controlled to avoid overwatering.
General Care for Echinocereus Pentalophus
This succulent type is a unique one that blooms in the spring. When it blooms, you will enjoy pink or magneta flowers. It is a nice addition to your collection of plants especially if you have it displayed in a beautiful pot.
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Quick Facts:
- Prefers full sun
- Can be grown outdoor
- Grows 1 m (3.3ft) long
- Grows up to 2.5 cm (1″) wide
- Can die easily if overwatered see: How to Water Succulent Plants
- Does not handle cold well
- Prefers Zone 9a-11b -6.7 °C (20°F)
- Best propagated by cuttings or seeds
- Flowers are pink or magenta
Where to Plant
Echinocereus Pentalophus succulents need strong light. When planting this succulent type in a garden, make sure it gets sunlight. Full to partial sun is the best for its growth. It is better to grow outdoor rather than indoor.
This type of succulent prefers a warm climate. It can survive at zone 9a-11b which is around -6.7°C (20°F). If you live in a cold area, it is better to plant Lady Finger Cactus in an indoor environment. As long as it gets enough sunlight, the plant will grow happily.
When selecting what pot to use be sure that you understand the difference between the material used (See our guide on how to pick the best plant pot).
How to Propagate Echinocereus Pentalophus
Lady Finger Cactus can be propagated by cuttings or seeds. This succulent type does not require repotting often. Of course, the first-time repotting is essential when it is bought from the store. You can learn all about How To Repot Succulents in our guide.
Like all the other succulent types, a well-drained soil mixture is essential. If you want to know about well-drained soil mixtures, check How to Prepare Well-drained Soil for Succulent Plants.
How to Propagate Echinocereus Pentalophus From Cuttings
When propagating Lady Finger Cactus from cuttings, cut a leaf from the mother plant carefully with a clean knife or scissors. Before replanting, wait for a few days to allow it to callous. Use well-draining soil for your new succulent plant. Don’t forget to water when the soil dries out.
How to Propagate Echinocereus Pentalophus Using Seeds
This succulent type is a slow grower so even if it can be propagated by its seeds, this method is not recommended. To propagate from the seeds, plant the seeds in a well-draining soil mixture. This method can be used outdoors. In cooler areas, indoor propagating is recommended.
Origin and Habitat
Lady Finger Cactus is native to North America, Eastern and central Mexico and the United States.
