Echinofossulocactus
stenocactus multicostatus
Also known as: ["Echinofossulocactus multicostatus","Echinocactus multicostatus"]
Overview
A globular cactus with numerous pronounced ribs and white spines, native to Mexico.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Stenocactus |
| Botanical Name: | Stenocactus multicostatus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, indirect 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 waterlogged roots.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or pumice for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 1–2 years when offsets become crowded.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only necessary parts to avoid stressing the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or filtered sunlight for 4–6 hours daily; avoid intense midday sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to stronger light; protect from direct sun to prevent scorching; place in east-facing windows or under shade cloth outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide dappled light in summer; shield from harsh afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; adjust frequency with seasons.
Soil
fast-draining cactus mix with added perlite or pumice
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid overwatering; use gritty amendments for better aeration.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C) during active growth; tolerates cooler temperatures down to 50°F (10°C) in winter but not frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain stable conditions during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted cactus fertilizer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent salt buildup; apply to moist soil to avoid root burn; stop in late autumn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (offsets or pups) or seed; offsets are the most reliable method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy offset.
- Let cut end dry for 1–2 days.
- Plant in medium.
- Water sparingly until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F/21–27°C), high humidity (60–70%), and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio) or pure pumice.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting; use a rooting hormone with auxins.
Timeline
Offsets may root in 2–4 weeks; seed germination can take 3–6 weeks with establishment over several months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callous before planting; maintain humidity without waterlogging; use sterile tools to prevent disease.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Twist or cut offsets cleanly at the base; avoid damaging the mother plant.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing offsets for propagation or dead/damaged parts to maintain health.
Tools
Clean, sharp knife or pruning shears; sterilize tools before use.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut cleanly; allow cut surfaces to dry; repot offsets if propagating.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., from 4-inch to 5-inch); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh cactus mix; water sparingly until established.
Suggestions
Repot only when roots fill the pot or every 2–3 years to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh cactus mix; handle roots carefully; avoid overwatering post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without saturating the soil. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly during active growing season (spring to early fall), allowing soil to dry partially between waterings. Reduce frequency to monthly or less in winter, ensuring soil is nearly dry before watering.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to standard potting soil to enhance drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing, or dropping of spines; stunted growth; soft or mushy stems (overwatering in cold) or brown/black tips (heat stress).
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes, making the plant vulnerable to root rot if watered too frequently; can cause irreversible damage below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Reduce watering in cool conditions; move to a warmer location; insulate pots from cold surfaces.
Hot Stress
Can lead to dehydration, sunburn, or etiolation if not provided adequate water and shade; may cause spines to lose color or wilt.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but ensure proper drainage.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use cactus-specific fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize only in growing season.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer (quarter strength) every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they ingest Stenocactus multicostatus, primarily due to physical irritation from spines and possible saponins. The toxicity is low, but ingestion should be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Stenocactus multicostatus by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to spines and potential saponins. The effects are generally not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicStenocactus multicostatus is generally considered non-toxic, but ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to the presence of spines and potentially irritating saponins. The physiological impact is minimal and typically limited to local irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Stenocactus multicostatus?
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 bright, direct sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is Stenocactus multicostatus toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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