Hill's Nolana
eriosyce subgibbosa
Also known as: ["Hill's Chilean Pineapple Cactus","Hill's Nolina"]
Overview
A small, globular cactus native to Chile, known for its distinctive ribbed body and woolly areoles.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Eriosyce |
| Botanical Name: | Eriosyce subgibbosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location 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 coarse sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when dead/damaged parts are observed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning to remove only dead or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate direct sun if acclimated gradually, but prefers filtered light to prevent sunburn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to direct sun slowly over weeks; avoid sudden exposure to intense sunlight; provide shade during peak midday hours in summer.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; place near south-facing window for bright light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to monthly in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
well-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 soils; ensure soil dries between waterings.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C) during active growth. Tolerates mild frost but thrives in arid, warm conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets.Offsets are the most reliable method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy offset or cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in well-draining medium.
- Water sparingly until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F or 21–27°C), humid (50–60%), and bright but indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio).
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Offsets may root in 2–4 weeks; cuttings may take 4–8 weeks to root and establish.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use a humidity dome to maintain moisture; avoid overwatering new cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or damaged stems with clean cuts close to the main body of the plant.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed. Focus on removing dead or damaged tissue to maintain plant health and appearance.
Tools
Sterile pruning shears or sharp knife.
Checklist
Use clean tools; remove only dead/damaged parts; allow cuts to dry before watering.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter).
Method
Remove plant carefully, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh cactus mix, and ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant outgrows its container. Necessary to refresh soil and prevent root binding.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; ensure drainage holes are clear; do not over-pot; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains freely from the bottom. Ensure the soil is moistened deeply but not saturated. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply during active growing season (spring/summer), allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce or suspend watering in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to commercial cactus mix to enhance drainage and aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), stunted growth, or bud drop in cold; wilting, scorching, or sunburn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolic processes, leading to root rot if soil remains moist. Prolonged cold can cause tissue damage or death.
Solution: Move plant to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry before cold exposure; use a heat mat if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, wilting, or sunburn, especially if combined with intense sunlight and poor ventilation.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure adequate ventilation; water early in the day.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply monthly during growing season (spring/summer), avoiding winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEriosyce subgibbosa is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicEriosyce subgibbosa is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicEriosyce subgibbosa is not known to exhibit any toxic properties to humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption, though it is not typically used as a food source.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Eriosyce subgibbosa?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, especially during winter dormancy.
Q: Does this cactus need full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is Eriosyce subgibbosa frost-tolerant?
A: It is somewhat frost-tolerant but should be protected from prolonged freezing temperatures.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
