Did you know a cactus plant could have been a flowering one?
For example, the Echinopsis Chamaecereus, also known as the Peanut cactus, is a cactus with beautiful flowers.
The Echinopsis chamaecereus cactus originates from Bolivia and Argentina. This plant will thrive among rocks and bushes in the Argentine mountains.
It is a small, round cactus often used in gardens and as houseplants. The plant is easy to care for and can be propagated from seed or stem cuttings.
Its stunning red flowers make it a popular plant, and it is often used in bouquets and floral arrangements.
The cactus parts resemble fingers or peanuts – which most likely explains its other name.
During bloom time, you will see the flowers grow on the fingers’ ends.
Echinopsis chamaecereus is a hardy plant that you can have in your home year round for many years, as these plants have a pretty long lifespan.
Quick Facts On Echinopsis Chamaecereus Plant Care
- Family: Cactaceae
- Light: Full Sun
- Temperature: Can handle room temperature all year but needs rest in a cool room to flower
- Water: Once a month in winter, regular watering in summer
- Fertilize: April to August; Liquid Fertilizer
- Propagation: Detaching Stems
- Common Problems: Spider mites, Black stem rot fungus, Flower buds fall
Echinopsis Chamaecereus Plant Care
How Big Does Peanut Cactus Plants Grow?
While the stems have a creeping growth, the plant itself sits rather low.
The cactus is often seen as a groundcover plant in gardens because it only reaches about 2″ inches in height.
In the wild, some plants have been found to be up to 3′ feet tall, but this is rare. The plant spreads outwards and can get up to 2′ feet wide.
The cactus shoots grow up to 6″ inches long and .5″ inches thick. They are light green and have sharp spines.
When Does Echinopsis Chamaecereus Flower? Are The Flowers Fragrant?
The stunning blood-red flora appears in the spring and summer. They open in the day and close at night.
To enjoy the fragrance, you need to be close to the plant when it blooms since the smell does not travel far.
The fragrance is sweet and honey-like, making it a favorite of bees, wasps, and other pollinators.
What Are The Lighting Needs And Temperature Requirements?
Give your Peanut Cactus loves the full sun and thrives in warm conditions, especially in summer.
However, it can also tolerate at room temperature until it is time for flowering.
A cool room gives this plant the proper winter rest its needs to produce flowers.
How And When To Water And FertilizePeanut Cactus?
Don’t overwater the peanut plant.
Winter is the time to keep it dry and give it rest. Monthly hydration is fine during the winter season.
Summer is time to become more generous with water, but you should increase it starting in April.
April is also the time to start feeding the peanut cactus. Continue to do so until August.
What Is The Best Soil For A Peanut Cactus And When Should You Transplant?
You can rely on regular potting or cactus soil for your plant. Enhance the quality of the soil by adding pumice or perlite.
The best time to transplant is in the spring or summer when the plant is no longer dormant.
Does The Echinopsis Chamaecereus Need Special Grooming Or Maintenance?
When it comes to grooming, you can leave this plant alone. Just stick the general care and it should be fine.
How To Propagate A Peanut Cactus?
The easiest way to propagate is from stem cuttings.
You can also grow from seed, but it is more difficult.
To take stem cuttings, do the following:
- Wait until the plant is no longer in bloom.
- Cut a three to four-inch section from the plant.
- Allow it to dry for 2 days, and then insert it into moistened cactus soil.
The cutting will sprout roots in 2 to 4 weeks. Once it does, you can start watering it on a regular schedule.
For seed propagation, do the following:
- Sow the tiny seeds in moist cactus soil in spring or summer to grow from seed.
- Place them under direct sunlight and keep the soil moist.
It can take up to 2 years for the plant to mature enough to bloom.
Echinopsis Chamaecereus Pests And Diseases
The main pests you have to worry about are the:
- Spider mites
- Mealybugs
These can cause patches on the plant when they feed on it.
Black stem rot fungus is another problem. It thrives in wet conditions, so make sure you are not overwatering as this fungus can kill the plant.
For black stem rot, cut off the affected area and let it dry.
Drought and drafts can cause the flower buds to fall off.
Stick with the recommended water schedule, and you should avoid drought issues. If you have drafts, move the plant to a more protected location.
Use a cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol to remove the pests if you see patches.
Is The Echinopsis Plant Considered Toxic Or Poisonous To People, Kids, And Pets?
The plant is not considered toxic to people or pets. However, it does have sharp spines that can irritate if you touch them.
Keep this plant out of reach of small children and pets to avoid any accidents.
Is The Peanut Cactus Plant Considered Invasive?
No, the plant is not considered invasive.
Best Uses For The Peanut Cactus
When you have a Peanut Cactus, you can enjoy its beautiful flowers and fragrance.
It is also a great plant to have if you want to attract pollinators to your garden.
If you live in a hot environment, this plant can also help cool down your home as it helps to evaporate water.