Echinocereus pentalophus

Echinocereus pentalophus is a matforming cactus with many crowded finger-like stems. Established plants can reach a height of 20 cm and width of 100 cm. It is a very fine sight in bloom, having few equals within the genus Echinocereus. Echinocereus pentalophus is an easily grown cactus, suited to hanging baskets as well as pots. This cactus is widely cultivated for its flowers, it is among the easiest species to grow, flower and propagate. Growth rate: It is a relatively rapidly growing and easily flowering species that will make large clumps given the best conditions. Soils: It likes very porous standard cactus mix soil. Prefer a low pH compost, avoid substrata rich in limestone; otherwise growth will stop altogether. Repotting: Use pot with good drainage. Watering: Needs moderate to copious waterings rom March to October, but do not overwater (Rot prone), keep dry in winter. Fertilization: Feed with a high potassium fertilizer in summer. Hardiness: Reputedly moderately resistant to frost if kept on the dry side prior to, and during, cold weather (hardy to -5 C ° C, for short periods). This cactus needs a period of cool rest in winter to produce flowers abundantly. Without this cool winter period these plants normally won't get many buds. It may flowers indoors if conditions suit it. Exposition: The plant tolerates extremely bright situations but enjoys filtered sunlight or afternoon shade during the hottest part of the summer, inside it needs bright light, and some direct sun. Tends to bronze in strong light, which encourages flowering and heavy spine production. Uses: It is an excellent plant for container growing. Cascading, clustering, great for a hanging display. Stems may possibly become purple and limp in winter, but revitalize in early spring. It look fine in a cold greenhouse and frame or outdoor in a rockery.   Some of the information in this description has been found at desert-tropicals.com, llifle.com and cactus-art.biz