Moon Cactus
echinopsis subdenudata
Also known as: ["Echinopsis eyriesii subdenudata","Echinopsis eyriesii var. subdenudata"]
Overview
A small, globular cactus with white spines and nocturnal, fragrant flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","fragrant flowers","drought tolerant","pet-friendly"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Echinopsis |
| Botanical Name: | Echinopsis subdenudata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, direct light or outdoor in a rock garden
- 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 sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when dead growth is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or full sun 6–8 hours/day; adjust to avoid scorching in intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun in summer; place indoors near a south-facing window if outdoors is too harsh.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer; avoid low-light areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; reduce watering in winter dormancy.
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
Ideal range 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frost but prefers warmer conditions; reduce watering in cooler temperatures.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 weeks during active growth with diluted cactus fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize only during growing season; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; apply after watering to avoid root shock.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets; cuttings root easily under proper conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Cut a healthy stem.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in dry soil.
- Water lightly after a week.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures above 70°F (21°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 1–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, pot, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent infection; avoid overwatering new cuttings; provide gentle warmth for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems cleanly with a sharp tool; allow cuts to callus before handling.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove dead or damaged stems to maintain shape and health.
Tools
Sharp, sterile knife or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; cut cleanly; allow wounds to dry; dispose of removed parts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; avoid watering for a week.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; avoid overwatering post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water exits the pot; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during spring and fall, increasing frequency in summer to once every 7–10 days, and reducing to monthly or less in winter. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to standard potting soil to enhance drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, stunted growth, or softening of the stem in cold; wilting, sunburn, or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root rot if soil remains wet; prolonged cold may lead to tissue damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; provide frost protection if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, sunburn, or scorching, especially if combined with inadequate water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase air circulation; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse tools after use.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEchinopsis subdenudata is not considered toxic to cats. No documented cases of toxicity have been reported in felines after ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicEchinopsis subdenudata is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects following ingestion by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicEchinopsis subdenudata is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no documented cases of toxicity associated with ingestion of this cactus species.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Echinopsis subdenudata?
A: Water sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry, typically every 2-3 weeks during growing season.
Q: Does this cactus need direct sunlight?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright, direct sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Why are the spines turning yellow?
A: Yellowing spines may indicate overwatering or fungal infection; reduce watering and ensure good air circulation.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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