Xeriscape Landscaping Plants For The Arizona Desert Environment
Pictures, Photos, And Information
Cactus

Echinopsis, Echinopsis thelegona

Echinopsis, Echinopsis thelegona Photo Taken At Desert Botanical Garden Phoenix On March 3, 2008.

Echinopsis, Echinopsis thelegona	Echinopsis, Echinopsis thelegona

Echinopsis Echinopsis thelegona, Cactus Family ( Cactaceae ), Echinopsis. Also called . Echinopsis thelegona is a perennial, succulent, prostrate cactus, with semi erect or sprawling branches or stems that are 4 - 5 feet in length and 3 - 4 inches in diameter. The stems have up to 12 ribs with areoles about 1/2 inch apart. Echinopsis has broad trumpet shaped, 6 - 8 inch long, white nocturnal flowers in the summer. The fruit is red and about 2 inches long . When ripe, it splits open on one side, exposing black seeds. Echinopsis is a large genus of cacti native to South America, sometimes referred to as Sea -Urchin cactus or Easter lily cactus. It's fragrant blooms normally open at night and persist until early morning. The bright white petals and yellow centers attract night pollinators such as, moths and bats. While it is said to be a nocturnal blooming cactus with the flowers closing at early morning. On cool, cloudy days in Arizona; the flowers continue blooming during the day. Echinopsis thelegona is low water use, but that does not mean it requires no water. It prefers deep infrequent irrigation and well-draining soil. Height: Height to about 3 feet. Spreading to about 7 feet. Flowers: White with yellow centers, very fragrant, up to 8 inches in diameter. Blooming Time: March - April. Segments: Green stems are stems 3 or 4 inches thick. Fruit: Red, with a red pulp and black seeds. Elevation: 0 - 2,800 Feet. Habitat: Sandy flats. Full Sun. A Xeriscape Landscape plant. Native to Argentina. Miscellaneous: Photos Taken At Desert Botanical Garden. Phoenix On March 3, 2008.