Nipple Cactus, Sea Urchin Cactus
echinopsis oxygona
Also known as: ["Echinocereus oxygonus","Mammillaria oxygona"]
Overview
A globular, spine-covered cactus with nocturnal, fragrant white flowers, native to South America.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","fragrant flowers","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Echinopsis |
| Botanical Name: | Echinopsis oxygona |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor garden in arid, well-drained area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when dead segments are present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or several hours of direct morning sun (4–6 hours/day). Adjust to avoid intense afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; provide shade during peak summer heat; indoors, place near south-facing windows with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries fully between waterings; avoid waterlogging, especially in winter.
Soil
fast-draining cactus mix with added perlite or pumice
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure soil dries between waterings.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C) during active growth; tolerates cooler temperatures (50–55°F or 10–13°C) in winter dormancy.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during active growth with diluted cactus fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause etiolation; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (offsets or pups) or seed.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy offset.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in well-draining soil.
- Water sparingly until roots establish.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and bright indirect light with good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Offsets root in 2–4 weeks; seeds may take several weeks to months to germinate.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use sterile tools to prevent infection; maintain consistent humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut segments cleanly with a sharp, sterile tool; allow cut surfaces to callus before handling.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged segments to maintain health and aesthetics.
Tools
Clean, sharp knife or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut cleanly; allow callusing; dispose of removed segments properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., 2–3 cm wider diameter) with drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; ensure drainage; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce winter watering; avoid crown wetting.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry; avoid wetting the crown to prevent rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly during active growth (spring/summer) every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency to monthly or less in winter.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage and aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or root rot in cold, damp conditions.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures combined with moisture can cause root rot and slow metabolic processes, leading to decline.
Solution: Ensure well-draining soil; keep plants dry in winter; move indoors or to a frost-free location if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause sunburn, dehydration, and wilting, especially if combined with inadequate water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water early in the day to reduce evaporation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use cactus-specific fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season only; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; cease fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they ingest Echinopsis oxygona. The spines can cause physical injury if the cat attempts to play with or chew the plant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Echinopsis oxygona can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. The spines pose a risk of mechanical injury if chewed or swallowed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicEchinopsis oxygona contains mild toxins that can cause gastrointestinal discomfort if ingested. The spines may also cause mechanical injury if handled improperly.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Echinopsis oxygona?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, especially during winter dormancy.
Q: Does Echinopsis oxygona flower indoors?
A: Yes, with adequate light and proper care, it can produce fragrant white flowers, often at night.
Q: Is Echinopsis oxygona toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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