Echinocactus grusonii

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The Echinocactus grusonii is indigenous to central Mexico. It grows in the Rio Moctezuma Valley (in close proximity to the Zimapán Dam, Mesa de Léon ), Queretaro. Recently, an exciting discovery of a new subpopulation was discovered in San Rafael de las Tablas, Zacatecas.

The Echinocactus grusonii typically grows a single, slowly forming, globe-shaped stem elongating in maturity. It can reach heights of 3' with an approximate width of 5'. At an older age, offsetting is possible with numerous multiples occurring even at smaller sizes. This cactus has a pale green, heavily ribbed stem. Ribs contain numerous areolas. Radial spines are bright yellow in color. Flowers are diurnal (opening during daylight hours and closing at night), and bright yellow (1 1/2 - 2 inches wide). Flowers form a circular, 360 degree halo at the top of the cactus. Flowers grow from the end of spring through summer, opening when exposed to direct sunlight. Interestingly, this cactus does not require cross pollination to produce said flowers.

The Echinocactus grusonii is a relatively simple plant to cultivate. They thrive in rich, well draining soil (i.e., lava grit, pumice and clay), with limited peat or leaf-mold. It is best to repot during the spring months if the plant has outgrown its container. Typically, they should be repotted every other year, so that they receive fresh soil. To clarify, this does not always mean that a larger pot is required. Once you have re-potted your cactus, avoid watering it for approximately one week (or slightly more). Utilize a high potassium fertilizer during the summertime.

Water regularly during the aestival growth cycle (summer dormancy - a survival strategy where a plant temporarily slows growth and/or becomes inactive during the summer months). Although the Echinocactus grusonii still does need a good amount of water, you must take care to not overwater. Always let their soil dry out between waterings. Do not allow water to stand/collect near or around the roots. Furthermore, do not pour water onto the body of the plant while in direct sunlight. This can easily cause sun burning, leading to scarification, fungal infections and death! Always keep dry during the winter months.

Synonyms:

Echinocactus grusonii var. albispinus Y.Itô
Echinocactus grusonii var. albispinus f. cristatus hort.
Echinocactus grusonii f. cristatus hort.
Echinocactus grusonii var. horridus Y.Itô
Echinocactus grusonii var. intermedius hort.
Echinocactus grusonii var. intermedius f. cristatus hort.
Echinocactus grusonii var. intermedius f. variegatus hort.
Echinocactus grusonii var. intertextus Y.Itô
Echinocactus grusonii var. intertextus f. cristatus hort.