Eriosyce islayensis

Eriosyce islayensis Eriosyce islayensis is a small cactus with very woolly areoles end dark spreading spines, it is very variable. Flowers: Diurnal, wide funnelform, yellow 1,5-2,5 cm long and in diameter (up to 4 cm in the variant known as grandiflora Cultivation and Propagation: It is an extremely xerophytic, summer-growing, species adapted to very dry soils that, like many cacti of the Peruvian deserts, present some problems in cultivation. It is in fact somewhat rot prone if kept in a non-ventilated place. Exposure: It is suited for sunny-brightly exposure but can tolerate light shade. However it will do its best only with lots of sun and become stressed with inadequate light which could result in poor growth and unnatural shape. It has a good heat tolerance. Watering: Water regularly in summer, but do not over-water and keep it completely dry during winter. Mature individuals easily rot and die especially after transplanting so be extremely cautious with watering. Keep dry in winter or when night temperatures remain below 10° C. Water it less than average if in bigger pots. Hardiness: It likes warmth (recommended minimum winter temperature 5° C), but hardy to at least -5°C (it can probably tolerate freezing temperatures down to -10° C for brief periods) It has a good heat tolerance. Some of the information in this description has been found at desert-tropicals.com, llifle.com and cactus-art.biz