Echinopsis subdenudata (Easter Lily Cactus)

Echinopsis

Echinopsis subdenudata, also known as the Easter Lily Cactus, is a beautiful, low-maintenance cactus with a stunning display of night-blooming flowers. Due to its beautiful nocturnal flowers, it has earned the nickname “night-blooming cactus.” Its compact size and ease of care make it a perfect choice for indoor and outdoor gardeners.

Echinopsis subdenudata should not be confused with Echinopsis oxygona, though both are called Easter Lily Cactus. E. subdenudata has nearly spineless stems and night-blooming flowers, while E. oxygona has more prominent spines and blooms that last longer during the day.

This Easter Lily Cactus is a member of the Cactaceae family, which also includes the popular Chrismas cactus, prickly pear (opuntia), pincushion cactus (mammillaria), and the iconic saguaro cactus and San Pedro cactus.

Description

the Easter Lily Cactus is a compact, globular cactus species admired for its stunning, large white blooms. The plant is nearly spineless, with small, round green stems that are smooth to the touch. It is a popular choice for indoor plant collections and rock gardens due to its manageable size and ease of care.

Native Habitat

Echinopsis subdenudata is native to the lowlands of Bolivia and Paraguay, where it thrives in rocky, well-draining soils. In its natural environment, the cactus adapts to arid conditions, surviving long periods of drought and high temperatures. The plant is well-suited to areas with intense sunlight, where it stores water in its thick, fleshy stems to endure periods without rainfall.

Plant Type and Habit

It is a small, globular cactus that grows in a solitary habit, although it can produce small offsets or “pups” around the base. These can be easily removed and propagated to form new plants.

Plant Size

The Easter Lily Cactus is relatively small, typically growing to about 2-3 inches (5-7 cm) in height and 3-5 inches (7-12 cm) in width. Its compact size makes it perfect for growing in containers or small gardens.

Cactus Flowers

The most striking feature is its large, fragrant white flowers. These funnel-shaped blooms can reach up to 6 inches (15 cm) in diameter and open at night, lasting only a day. The flowers have a sweet fragrance. The white color of the flowers allows them to stand out beautifully against the dark green body of the cactus. Although the blooms are short-lived, they are produced in succession during the growing season, providing repeated displays of beauty.

They typically bloom during the spring and summer months, although they can bloom multiple times throughout the year with proper care. Since the flowers bloom at night and fade by the morning, they are often called “one-night wonders.”

Stem and Spines

The stem is small, globular, and dark green. The plant has 8-12 ribs running vertically down the body, which are lined with small, nearly spineless areoles. Unlike many cacti, Echinopsis subdenudata has only a few tiny spines, which are pale and soft, almost unnoticeable at first glance. This nearly spineless appearance makes it easier to handle than other cactus species. The ribs allow the cactus to expand and contract as it stores or uses up water.

Award

Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.

Hardiness

This Easter Lily Cactus is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and prefers warmer conditions. In cooler climates, it can be grown outdoors during the summer months and brought indoors when temperatures drop.

Uses

Echinopsis is primarily grown for its ornamental value. Its large, fragrant flowers and small, neat form make it an attractive addition to rock gardens, container gardens, or indoor collections. It’s perfect for those looking to add a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plant to their garden or home decor. The plant is also used in succulent arrangements alongside other cacti and succulents for a stunning visual display.

Wildlife

In its native habitat, Echinopsis subdenudata attracts nocturnal pollinators such as moths and bats, which are drawn to the large, fragrant white flowers that bloom at night.

Toxicity

This cactus is considered non-toxic to humans and pets. This makes it a safe choice for households with children or animals. However, it’s always best to keep plants out of reach of curious pets, as ingesting any plant material in large quantities can cause digestive upset.

Deer and Rabbits

This cactus plant is generally resistant to deer and rabbits due to its lack of palatability.

Drought Tolerance

Echinopsis is highly drought-tolerant. It stores water in its fleshy stems and can survive long periods without watering. It is an ideal plant for low-water gardens or indoor environments where regular watering might be difficult.

Invasiveness

Echinopsis is not considered an invasive species. As a slow-growing cactus, it poses no threat to local ecosystems and does not spread aggressively. It is easy to manage and contains its growth within its pot or garden area.

Benefits

• Aesthetic Appeal: The large, white, night-blooming flowers of Echinopsis subdenudata make it a stunning ornamental plant.
• Low Maintenance: Its drought tolerance and minimal care requirements make it an ideal plant for both beginner and experienced gardeners.
• Compact Size: Its small size makes it perfect for growing in containers, rock gardens, or indoor spaces.

Echinopsis Cactus Care

Light Requirements

Echinopsis subdenudata thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. Place it near a sunny window, ideally with some morning sun. Avoid intense midday sunlight, which can scorch the plant.

Watering

Water deeply during the growing season (spring to summer), allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in the winter when the cactus enters dormancy, as overwatering during this period can lead to rot.

Soil

Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix. Adding perlite or coarse sand can improve drainage, preventing root rot.

Temperature

This cactus prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 50°F and 85°F (10°C to 29°C). It can tolerate brief dips to 25°F (-4°C) but avoid prolonged exposure to frost.

Fertilizer

Feed once a month during the growing season with a diluted, low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in the dormant period.

Pruning and Repotting

Pruning is generally unnecessary unless removing dead or damaged parts. Repot every 2-3 years in the spring to refresh the soil and accommodate growth. Use a slightly larger pot with good drainage.

Propagation

Echinopsis subdenudata can be propagated by removing offsets that form at the base. Allow the offsets to dry for a day or two before planting in fresh soil.

Pests and Diseases

Common pests include mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. Regularly inspect the plant and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering may lead to root rot or fungal infections, so ensure proper watering practices.