Peanut Cactus
echinopsis chamaecereus
Also known as: ["Chamaecereus silvestrii"]
Overview
A small, clumping cactus with cylindrical stems and dense, soft spines, native to South America.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Echinopsis |
| Botanical Name: | Echinopsis chamaecereus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor in a sheltered, sunny spot
- 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.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus mix with perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; typically annually or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial sun (4–6 hours/day); avoid intense midday sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to outdoor light; protect from scorching; provide filtered light in intense sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains for strong sun; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; adjust for seasons.
Soil
well-draining, sandy cactus mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries quickly; avoid heavy, water-retentive mixes; use pots with drainage.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced cactus fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Cut healthy stem.
- Let callus form.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Cactus mix or perlite and sand mixture.
Hormone
Optional, but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, cactus mix.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; avoid overwatering; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems close to the base; avoid cutting into healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove dead or damaged stems to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh cactus mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; check root health; ensure proper drainage; avoid over-potting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, avoiding the stem; ensure water reaches the root zone; allow excess to drain completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; use a cactus-specific mix.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing, or stunted growth in cold; sunburn or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root rot if soil remains wet in cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; ensure soil dries quickly; protect from drafts.
Hot Stress
Can cause dehydration, sunburn, or etiolation if not shaded.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase humidity; water more frequently if in heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength; feed monthly in growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEchinopsis chamaecereus is not toxic to cats. The plant does not contain any known substances that are harmful to felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicEchinopsis chamaecereus is not toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic compounds in the plant that would cause harm to canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicEchinopsis chamaecereus is not known to produce any toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects in humans. The plant is generally considered safe for ingestion, though it is not typically consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Echinopsis chamaecereus?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, especially during winter dormancy.
Q: Does this cactus flower?
A: Yes, it produces bright orange-red flowers in spring and summer.
Q: Is it safe to have around pets?
A: Yes, 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 activ |
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